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NFL
Raiders select Fernando Mendoza with No 1 pick in NFL draft
TL;DR
The Las Vegas Raiders selected Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the NFL draft. The team aims to revitalize its franchise while ensuring Mendoza's development is not rushed, as veteran Kirk Cousins will start the season.
Key points
- Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza first overall in NFL draft
- Mendoza is a Heisman Trophy winner
- Kirk Cousins will start the season as veteran quarterback
- Pressure on Mendoza to validate the first pick
- Raiders aim to revitalize franchise after playoff drought
Mentioned in this story
Kirk Cousins
Las Vegas RaidersFernando Mendoza
The Las Vegas Raiders have pinned their hopes on Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, selecting him first overall in Thursday night's NFL draft.
Mendoza's revitalization of the franchise, which hasn't won a playoff game since their 2002 Super Bowl appearance despite three Lombardi Trophies, is crucial.
However, the Raiders have clarified they will not rush Mendoza's development, having signed veteran Kirk Cousins, who is expected to start the season.
This top selection places considerable pressure on both Mendoza and the organization to validate the choice, especially as he was not widely considered a top prospect a year ago, despite the pick being telegraphed for months.
Mendoza, who stunningly led Indiana to its first national championship, did not attend the draft in Pittsburgh, opting to watch with family and friends in Miami (Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
Mendoza, who stunningly led Indiana to its first national championship, did not attend the draft in Pittsburgh, opting to watch with family and friends in Miami.
The Raiders' last No. 1 overall pick is remembered as one of the major busts in NFL draft history. LSU's JaMarcus Russell went first overall in 2007, lasting just three seasons while going 7-18.
Q&A
Who did the Raiders select with the first pick in the NFL draft?
The Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner, with the first overall pick.
What are the expectations for Fernando Mendoza after being drafted by the Raiders?
There is considerable pressure on Mendoza and the Raiders to validate the choice, especially since he was not widely considered a top prospect a year ago.
How will the Raiders manage Fernando Mendoza's development?
The Raiders have stated they will not rush Mendoza's development, as veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins is expected to start the season.
