Overview
- Mendoza remains the betting and mock-draft favorite for the Raiders’ No. 1 selection despite a widening debate over his pro ceiling.
- Bomani Jones questioned whether Mendoza looks like a true top pick, calling him a very good college quarterback rather than a clear No. 1 prospect.
- Countering the doubts, a coach who faced Indiana told The Athletic that Mendoza is not just an RPO passer and can make every throw.
- Roster context fuels alternative plans for Las Vegas, with analysts noting a league-worst 64 sacks and a 10.6% sack rate as reasons to trade the pick or build the line first.
- Dante Moore is highlighted as a viable alternative in new analysis, while Mendoza’s 14–0 season with 71.5% passing, 2,980 yards and 33 TDs underpins his current No. 1 buzz.