Jun 3, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) warms up during organized team activities at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images
The Las Vegas Raiders have officially signed quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the first overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, on Thursday.
Mendoza’s four‑year rookie contract is fully guaranteed at $57.27 million and contains a fifth‑year option.
At 22, Mendoza led Indiana to its inaugural national championship and an undefeated 16‑0 record in 2025. He completed 72 % of his passes for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns and six interceptions in his lone season with the Hoosiers.
The franchise also added veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who is slated to start the opening game, while Mendoza is projected as the long‑term cornerstone of the team.
Reports indicated that Mendoza and the Raiders had been negotiating over his signing bonus, but the club declined to disclose any specifics on Thursday.
Rookies are scheduled to report to training camp in Las Vegas on Wednesday.
Mendoza spent his first two collegiate seasons at Cal (2023‑24), accumulating 4,712 passing yards with 30 touchdowns and 16 interceptions across 20 games for the Golden Bears.
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