Fernando Mendoza, Miami
Digest more
Raiders make Fernando Mendoza top pick in 2026 NFL Draft
Digest more
The projected no. 1 draft pick is close with his parents and brothers.
Heisman Trophy winner Mendoza, 22, eschewed the official NFL Draft event to celebrate at home in Miami with his mom and dad.
The Las Vegas Raiders selected Heisman Trophy winner and South Florida native Fernando Mendoza as their franchise quarterback with the top overall pick in Thursday night's NFL draft.
Day 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft is in the books. Things got off to an expected start with the Raiders drafting Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick and the Jets taking a pass rusher in David Bailey at No.