Fernando Mendoza lands in Las Vegas

TL;DR

Fernando Mendoza was selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2026 NFL Draft and was introduced at the team's facility in Henderson, Nevada. He expressed excitement about officially becoming a Raider and the opportunity to prove himself.

Key points

Fernando Mendoza was the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
He was introduced by the Las Vegas Raiders at their Henderson facility.
Mendoza will wear number 15, blessed by Tom Flores.

Mentioned in this story

Klint KubiakJohn SpytekTom FloresJim PlunkettFred Biletnikoff

Fernando MendozaLas Vegas RaidersMaxx CrosbyTyler Linderbaum

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 23: A detailed view of the stage showing a still of Fernando Mendoza of the Indiana on screen after being selected first overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders during Round One of the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium on April 23, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images Fernando Mendoza, who the Las Vegas Raiders drafted with the No. 1 overall pick Thursday night, was introduced by the team Friday flanked new head coach Klint Kubiak and general manager John Spytek. Mendoza has been expected to be a Raider for months. Friday, he landed at the team’s Henderson, Nevada facility, which should be his workplace for the next decade plus. He is excited that he can finally move on. “I’m really glad the outside noise is done,” Mendoza said. “I’m excited to officially to be a Raider … I have to earn it. I haven’t proven anything.” In his first pubic words since Mendoza was drafted, Kubiak said the Raiders were sold on Mendoza when they went to his Pro Day a few weeks ago. Kubiak said he loves Mendoza’s leadership ability. Mendoza spoke of the legacy of the Raiders and he was thrilled to see Raiders’ Super Bowl MVPs, quarterback Jim Plunkett and Hall of Fame wide receiver Fred Biletnikoff, were in attendance Friday. Mendoza will wear No. 15 after getting the blessing from former player and Hall of Fame coach Tom Flores. Mendoza said he received welcome texts from new teammates Maxx Crosby, , and since the draft. Now, it’s time for them all to go to work on the future of the franchise.

Q&A

Who is Fernando Mendoza and why was he drafted first overall by the Raiders?

Fernando Mendoza is a football player who was drafted first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2026 NFL Draft due to his strong leadership abilities and performance at his Pro Day.

What number will Fernando Mendoza wear for the Las Vegas Raiders?

Fernando Mendoza will wear the number 15 for the Las Vegas Raiders, having received the blessing from former player and Hall of Fame coach Tom Flores.

What did Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak say about Fernando Mendoza?

Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak expressed confidence in Fernando Mendoza's leadership skills and stated that the team was sold on him after attending his Pro Day.