Projected No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza is set to miss one of the most iconic moments of the NFL calendar, choosing not to attend the 2026 NFL Draft in person.
According to Adam Schefter, the Indiana Hoosiers football star quarterback will skip the live event in Pittsburgh and instead watch the first round from his home in Miami, surrounded by family.
A No. 1 Pick—But No Draft Stage Moment
Mendoza is widely expected to be selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders, making his absence from the draft stage a notable decision. While many top prospects attend the event for the traditional walk across the stage, Mendoza is opting for a more personal celebration.
The Raiders are scheduled to go on the clock April 23, where all signs point to Mendoza becoming the new face of the franchise.
Raiders Already All-In on Mendoza
New head coach Klint Kubiak has openly praised Mendoza’s abilities, highlighting his leadership, intelligence, and winning pedigree.
“He’s a national champion, he’s a winner,” Kubiak said—underscoring the organization’s confidence in the young quarterback.
If selected, Mendoza would become just the second No. 1 overall pick in Raiders history, following JaMarcus Russell in 2007—a selection widely regarded as one of the biggest draft missteps in league history.
Veteran Presence Already in Place
Mendoza won’t be stepping into an empty locker room. The Raiders recently signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins after his departure from the Atlanta Falcons.
A four-time Pro Bowler, Cousins brings experience and familiarity with Kubiak, stemming from their time together with the Minnesota Vikings between 2019 and 2021. That existing relationship is expected to provide stability and mentorship as Mendoza transitions to the NFL.
A Different Kind of Draft Night
While fans may miss the visual of Mendoza walking across the stage, his decision reflects a growing trend among top prospects choosing more intimate draft-night experiences.
Bottom line: Even without attending the event, Fernando Mendoza is still expected to be the headline of the 2026 NFL Draft—marking the beginning of a new era for the Raiders.
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