Total Pro Sports
Indiana Hoosiers star Fernando Mendoza declared for the 2026 NFL draft, where he will likely go first overall to the Las Vegas Raiders. Mendoza spent one season in Indiana, leading them to the national championship and a 16-0 finish.
The challenge will be different for the quarterback, who will arrive on a team with a lot of work to do to compete. During an interview with NBC’s “Today” on Friday, Mendoza expressed his excitement to join a team like Las Vegas.
Raiders fan Carson Daly told Mendoza the team would get an offensive line for him, while keeping two capable weapons in running back Ashton Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers. Mendoza praised the franchise, including the coaching staff.
“The Raiders have a great culture, have a great coaching staff, great ownership group. It’s all around,” Mendoza said. “Those are legit guys. I’d be happy to end anywhere.”
Fernando Mendoza spoke on being drafted as the NO. 1 overall pick by the #Raiders on @TODAYshow.
“The Raiders have a great culture, have a great coaching staff, great ownership group. It’s all around. Those are legit guys. I’d be happy to end anywhere.” pic.twitter.com/zmAT1Web1X
— Luis Mayorga (@LuisNMayorga) January 23, 2026
At the time of writing, the Raiders haven’t hired anybody as head coach. In fact, they continue to interview candidates. Perhaps they have identified their candidate and let Mendoza know ahead of April’s draft.
NFL insider Jordan Schultz shared Tom Brady’s plans for Fernando Mendoza on Wednesday. The Raiders’ minority owner wants to pair Mendoza with an offensive-minded coach.
“The Raiders are believed to be focusing on an offensive-minded to pair with the likely no. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza alongside weapons like Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty,” Schultz said.
Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak and Denver Broncos offensive pass coordinator David Webb have been mentioned as candidates. Mike McDaniel already interviewed for the role, which suggests that Brady is favorite a specific type of coach.
