The Las Vegas Raiders have earned the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. After a disastrous season, the Raiders have positioned themselves to select their quarterback of the future. All signs point to the Raiders selecting Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick.
If that is the case, significant expectations will follow him into the NFL, as he will be tasked with helping turn the Raiders back into contenders. Former Raiders quarterback Derek Carr discussed his thoughts on the possibility of the team drafting Mendoza on his podcast.
Derek Carr Has Strong Feelings About Fernando Mendoza
Derek Carr and his brother, David, host a podcast called “Home Grown with David & Derek Carr.” As former NFL quarterbacks, much of the show centers on league-related discussion.
“For the record, I want him to be the quarterback,” Derek said. “Okay, I’m setting the record straight. But I also want them to do so much around him that when he walks in there, he’s the greatest Raider of all time.
The primary concern Carr appears to have regarding Mendoza is the possibility of a weak supporting cast hindering his development. Like most rookie quarterbacks, Mendoza would be expected to experience ups and downs. One of the Raiders’ biggest issues this past season was their offensive line. If that unit is not addressed before Mendoza arrives, the rookie could be put in a difficult position.
“He is the undoubtedly No. 1 overall pick. He’s amazing. That quarterback run. want to see him in silver and black so bad. I love him. But I don’t want to see him get beat down and see that happy face not be able to look into that camera during that interview. Mendoza is the No. 1 overall pick, but in free agency, you better spend every bit of your money to put it around him.”
“I wanna see him in Silver and Black so bad, I love him.”@derekcarrqb sets the record straight on his thoughts about the Raiders drafting Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick 🏴☠️
New episode drops tomorrow 📺 pic.twitter.com/Cd0k1XujHp
— Home Grown with David & Derek Carr (@HomeGrownTweet) January 21, 2026
History has shown that rookie quarterbacks can struggle early when playing behind poor offensive line play. The Raiders will need to be aggressive in free agency to avoid that scenario with Mendoza.
Raiders Need a Slam Dunk HC Hire
Before the Raiders even reach the NFL Draft, they will hire a new head coach. This decision could be one of the most significant moments in franchise history. Hiring the right coach could help propel the team back into sustained contention. It is also worth noting that the Raiders already have tight end Brock Bowers and running back Ashton Jeanty, both of whom rank among the top players at their positions.
It is unlikely the Raiders will be a playoff team next season, particularly with a new head coach and rookie quarterback. Still, the organization should be able to show clear signs of progress, giving fans reason for optimism heading into 2026.
