2026 NFL Mock Draft: Raiders Pick Mendoza First, Moore Returns to Oregon

Emerson Raymont

ago 1 hour

The 2026 NFL Draft is drawing closer, and anticipated decisions are reshaping the landscape for participating teams. With the declaration deadline set for January 23, 2026, some key players have already made their intentions clear. Among them is Oregon quarterback Dante Moore, who has opted to return to school, significantly impacting the strategic decisions of various franchises.

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Raiders Pick Mendoza First

Top Contenders for the 2026 Draft

1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
2. New York Jets: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
3. Arizona Cardinals: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami
4. Tennessee Titans: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
5. New York Giants: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

Las Vegas Raiders Select Fernando Mendoza

The Raiders have the first overall pick, and all indications suggest they will select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 225 pounds, Mendoza has had an outstanding season, achieving a remarkable 72.3% completion rate. He threw for 3,349 yards, posting an impressive 41-6 touchdown-to-interception ratio and earning a Total QBR of 89.5. Mendoza’s combination of accuracy and big-play ability makes him a frontrunner for the top spot.

Notable Players in the Top Five Picks

1. New York Jets: With Moore returning to school, the Jets may focus on bolstering their receiving corps. Carnell Tate, a wide receiver from Ohio State, had an impressive 2025 season, making 51 receptions for 875 yards and nine touchdowns. His size (6’3″, 195 lbs) and skill set are ideal for their needs.

2. Arizona Cardinals: Francis Mauigoa from Miami is projected as a top offensive tackle. At 6’6″ and 315 lbs, he showcased reliability and skill on the offensive line, being a crucial asset for Miami’s attack.

3. Tennessee Titans: Jeremiyah Love, the standout running back from Notre Dame, is another name to watch. Love produced 1,372 rushing yards and achieved 6.89 yards per carry in 2025, demonstrating his capability as an elite back.

4. New York Giants: Caleb Downs, a safety from Ohio State, enters the draft with a solid reputation for tackling and coverage efficiency. He allowed only nine completions throughout the season, signaling his readiness for the NFL.

Other Noteworthy Prospects

– Cleveland Browns: Jordyn Tyson from Arizona State is a versatile wide receiver with a strong skill set for offensive schemes.
– Washington Commanders: Rueben Bain Jr. from Miami has proven to be a disruptive edge rusher, making him a valuable asset for any defensive line.

As the draft approaches, teams will closely monitor these prospects and strategize their picks. The decisions made in the next few months will undoubtedly shape the future of these franchises in the NFL. Be sure to follow El-Balad for regular updates on player evaluations and team strategies leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft.