Should I Start Fernando Mendoza?

Thursday, April 23, 4:36 PM

The Las Vegas Raiders officially selected Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft on Thursday night. What we've known for months is finally official. The 22-year-old Heisman Trophy winner led Indiana to an undefeated season in 2025 and the national championship by completing 72% of his 379 pass attempts for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and only six interceptions in 16 games played. He was also a threat on the ground, carrying the ball 90 times for 276 yards and seven touchdowns. Running back Jeremiyah Love should come off the board first in rookie-only dynasty drafts, but Mendoza should be 1.02 in superflex leagues. The Raiders signed veteran Kirk Cousins to serve as a short-term bridge as the Raiders ease Mendoza into the NFL spotlight, but Mendoza should take over the starting gig under center in Vegas sooner rather than later. Mendoza will have a high-end fantasy ceiling in dynasty/keeper leagues because of his elite accuracy, quick release, and excellent decision-making skills. He's not quite a high-end dual threat as a rusher, but he should have a safe floor in the long-term. The Indiana product has been compared to both Cousins and Jared Goff for his ability to pick a defense apart from the pocket with pinpoint accuracy.