Raiders GM John Spytek confirmed that the team has received inquiries regarding the No. 1 overall draft pick. While he did not commit to keeping the pick, it appears the Raiders are likely to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
Fernando Mendoza
BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA - APRIL 01: Fernando Mendoza #15 of the Indiana Hoosiers speaks to the media during the 2026 IU Pro Day at John Mellencamp Pavilion on April 01, 2026 in Bloomington, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek and assistant GM Brian Stark met with the media Tuesday afternoon for a pre-draft press conference.
There wasnât much news out of the session, but here are some highlights:
Spytek acknowledged that the Raiders have received some calls on the No. 1 overall draft pick. With a smile, he said those teams âknow where they stand.â Spytek wouldnât commit to keeping the top pick, but it seems barring an unexpected blockbuster, the Raiders will be taking Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick.
That has been the expectation throughout the draft process and nothing has changed nine days before the draft. Spytek did say itâs a unique situation having the top pick and the Raiders are the only team this year who know they can take whoever they want âif we choose to do so.â
John Spytek thanks the scouting staff and then (towards the end) answers about the calls the team has fielded for the #1 pick. #Raiders pre-draft news conference. pic.twitter.com/WlPX9zDFcn
Asked again if a young quarterback will play to start the season, Spytek said the âbest manâ will play, but added it is difficult for a rookie to play right away. Spytek and Las Vegas head coach Klint Kubiak have been maintaining that line of thinking this offseason.
Even though the Raiders have spent a lot of draft capital on the offensive line in recent years, Spytek said he feels like a team canât have enough offensive lineman. He said heâs on the record as saying âoffensive linemen are sexy as hell.â
Spytek said he likes the safety depth in this draft and he feels like some good player at the position may be available in the latter rounds because not every team may value the position. He noted the Raiders have just three safeties on the roster, so itâs a clear area they will add at.
Stark said in addition to safety, he thinks this draft is deep on the offensive line and at wide receiver. So, perhaps these could be areas Las Vegas looks to add to in the late round.
Spytek said the way the Raidersâ roster currently sits, they will be adding 15 undrafted free agents. Depending on draft trades and roster additions and subtractions, the number could change slightly.
Spytek complimented second year players, cornerback Darien Porter and wide receivers Jack Bech and Dontâe Thornton on how they are approaching the offseason.
Spytek said there is some late draft-board tinkering to do, but, for the most part, the heavy lifting of the pre-draft process is over.
Spytek opened the session by shouting out the work of the teamâs scouting department during this process. Spytek, a former scout, has often been complimentary of his staff.
Q&A
What teams have called the Raiders about the No. 1 overall draft pick?
Specific teams that have called the Raiders regarding the No. 1 overall draft pick have not been disclosed.
Who is the likely No. 1 overall pick for the Raiders in the draft?
The Raiders are expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick.
What did John Spytek say about the Raiders' decision on the top draft pick?
John Spytek mentioned that the Raiders have received calls about the top pick but did not commit to keeping it, indicating they may select Mendoza unless a significant offer arises.
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