Raiders Eye Mendoza First, Then Bolster Defense

Las Vegas Raiders are expected to use the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on quarterback Fernando Mendoza of Indiana , a move that would give the franchise its first top selection since 2007 . Officials indicated the pick is viewed as a foundational step at the game’s most important position, setting the direction for the rest of the class.

After that opening choice, the club is expected to devote its remaining nine selections to defense, with the defensive line and the secondary identified as priority areas. The approach reflects a roster-building plan that aims to add multiple contributors rather than concentrating resources on a single unit.

General Manager John Spytek said the Raiders are willing to trade back from their No. 36 pick to add more draft capital. That tactic was used twice in the second round last year, and the same flexibility is again on the table as the team weighs value against immediate needs.

If Las Vegas keeps the No. 36 selection, a defensive tackle is described as a strong possibility. Two names linked to that range are Kayden McDonald of Ohio State and Christen Miller of Georgia , as the Raiders look to strengthen the interior of the defensive front.

McDonald arrives with notable indicators from the 2025 season. He is ranked No. 26 by ESPN's Scouts Inc. , and data shows he posted a 7.8% run stop win rate in 2025 , the best among FBS defensive linemen. Those figures are being cited as evidence of his ability to impact early downs.

The secondary is also a major focus, particularly at safety and cornerback. With only three safeties currently on the roster, the Raiders are expected to draft at least two at the position, with Bud Clark of TCU mentioned as a third-round possibility and Kamari Ramsey of USC as a fourth-round option.

At cornerback, Chris Johnson of San Diego State is described as a second-round target. On Day 3, the team could look to Malik Muhammad of Texas , Devin Moore of Florida , and Will Lee III of Texas A&M to increase competition and add depth.

Key uncertainties remain around how aggressively Las Vegas will move down from No. 36 and which defensive position will be prioritized first if the team stays put. The plan, as outlined, hinges on balancing immediate roster gaps with the opportunity to accumulate additional picks.