QB Fernando Mendoza, Edge Rusher David Bailey, Running Back Jeremiyah Love Go 1–2–3 in NFL Draft

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is shown on a screen after being chosen by the Las Vegas Raiders with the first overall pick during the first round of the NFL football draft in Pittsburgh on April 23, 2026. Gene J. Puskar/AP Photo

PITTSBURGH—Fernando Mendoza’s journey from overlooked two-star recruit to the top of the NFL draft is complete after the Las Vegas Raiders took him with the first pick on Thursday night.

Turning the Raiders into a contender is the next challenge for the Heisman Trophy winner who led Indiana to its first national championship.