The Las Vegas Raiders have been searching for a new franchise quarterback for a long time. Trading for former Pro Bowl QB Geno Smith last offseason backfired. The Raiders now have the No. 1 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, and many believe they are set to select Heisman-winning CFP national champion Fernando Mendoza from Indiana.
However, others do not believe it is a good idea. Some think the Raiders would be better off trading the No. 1 pick for a collection of assets.
Specifically, Fox Sports' Danny Parkins believes the Raiders would be much better off trading the top pick in April's NFL Draft.
“Given how many holes the Raiders have, and looking at the comps for Mendoza, it seems like this is a Jared Goff type, who is a little bit quicker with a little bit of a bad arm ... who might miss.”
Absolutely. All draft picks can be missed, even the seemingly 'sure things' that come up every few years. Still, what's the alternative in Las Vegas? Running it back with Geno Smith? Trying to bring in someone like Tua Tagovailoa or Kyler Murray?
Who's to say those reclamation projects are even going on in Vegas? Mendoza would be their least expensive option, and has the highest ceiling, but yes, like any player, there are risks involved. It's up to the attackers to decide if the risks are worth the potential payoff.
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