AP Mock Draft: Who Goes After Raiders’ QB Mendoza?

April 18, 2026 5:04 am

[AP] Fernando Mendoza, who will reportedly not be in Pittsburgh next week when Roger Godell announces his name during the NFL Draft, will get a chance to learn from Kirk Cousins before the Las Vegas Raiders give him an opportunity to start. The only question surrounding the Heisman Trophy winner is when he’ll make his debut. Mendoza, who led Indiana to its first national championship, is an overwhelming favorite to be the No. 1-overall pick. The intrigue starts with the second pick. Ohio State edge rusher Arvell Reese was widely considered the choice for the New York Jets but Texas Tech edge David Bailey has gained momentum.