Overview
- Indiana’s Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza strengthened his case with dominant CFP games, fueling projections he will be the No. 1 pick.
- Oregon’s Dante Moore committed three turnovers in the Peach Bowl and told reporters he has not decided whether to enter the 2026 draft.
- Multiple mock drafts, including ESPN’s Jordan Reid, now forecast Las Vegas selecting Mendoza, with betting markets listing him as a heavy favorite.
- The Raiders are viewed as unlikely to trade down from No. 1 given their quarterback need, though potential suitors to move up include the Jets, Cardinals, Browns, Dolphins and Rams.
- Las Vegas’ decision is set against organizational flux after firing Pete Carroll and navigating Geno Smith’s two-year, $75 million deal that carries significant 2026 cap implications.