Raiders.com Staff
Each week leading up to the NFL Draft, Raiders.com will compile the latest mock drafts from top analysts and take a look at who they're predicting the Silver and Black will select with the No. 1 overall pick.
Here's the latest projections from media pundits.
Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN
Pick:Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Analysis:"Including the No. 1 selection in mock drafts is just a formality at this point. It's going to be Mendoza, and the Raiders have spent the past two weeks trying to clean up the surroundings for his arrival. The team's biggest signing was center Tyler Linderbaum on a massive three-year, $81 million deal; he will help Mendoza with setting protections and improve the interior blocking. The Raiders also moved on from their previous starting QB by trading Geno Smith to the Jets. That leaves Aidan O'Connell as the only passer on the roster. It's time for the Mendoza era to begin in Las Vegas."
Date:March 17
Daniel Jeremiah, NFL.com
Pick:Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Analysis:"Las Vegas used free agency to reel in three-time Pro Bowler Tyler Linderbaum at center, which should aid in Mendoza's development. I still expect the Raiders to add a veteran quarterback this offseason, so they won't need to rush the rookie onto the field."
Date:March 17
Joel Klatt, FOX Sports
Pick:Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Analysis:"We all kind of know this is what's going to happen. I think Mendoza will be a great fit for the Raiders from a coaching and offensive philosophy standpoint. They went out and paid top-dollar for some free agents, with Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum headlining that group. They're building up the offensive line for not just Mendoza, but also for running back Ashton Jeanty. I think the Raiders are building toward something big, which bodes well for a quarterback who plays his best in crunch time. "
Date:March 16
Nate Davis and Ayrton Ostly, USA Today
Round 1 Pick:Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Analysis:"As if there's been any mystery surrounding this pick since the 2025 regular season ended, the Silver and Black's position was further clarified by the trade of QB Geno Smith, who wasn't even retained as a bridge option to Mendoza. The 6-foot-5, 236-pound Heisman Trophy winner paced FBS with 41 TD passes last season, processes like a microchip and just led the Hoosiers to a magical national championship. His interactions with reporters and his fellow attendees at the scouting combine continued to burnish his reputation as an outstanding person and teammate. Might have been nice for this team to get extra youngsters around Mendoza had the Maxx Crosby trade gone through, yet playing with Crosby could be equally beneficial for the new face of the franchise on the field and off."
Round 2 Pick:Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
Analysis:"Las Vegas added to the offensive line and second level of the defense. But the Raiders still need someone up front to help Crosby, who appears set to stay in Las Vegas in 2026. McDonald is a run-stuffing presence who can help free up new LBs Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean to stop opposing running backs."
Date:March 16
Josh Edwards, CBS Sports
Pick:Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Analysis:"No one is even considering alternatives for Las Vegas. The Tyler Linderbaum signing supports the assumption that Fernando Mendoza will be the No. 1 overall selection, because a veteran center is a huge benefit for a young quarterback. The Raiders need a quarterback, and there's a player worthy of that consideration."
Date:March 13
Garrett Podell, CBS Sports
Pick:Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Analysis:"Mendoza is the obvious first overall pick after leading the country in touchdown passes, winning the 2025 Heisman Trophy and powering Indiana to its first football national championship. The Raiders also paved the way for him to start right away after trading Geno Smith to the Jets and signing three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum to the biggest contract for a center in NFL history."
Date:March 13
