When Fernando Mendoza hears his name called during the2026 NFL Draftlater this month, he’ll do so surrounded by friends and family at home.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the likelyNo. 1 overall pickwill stay at home in Miami and not attend the draft in Pittsburgh.
The Las Vegas Raiders hold the top overall selection in the draft, which will take place April 23-25.
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The last top pick to not be in attendance was Travon Walker, who was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022.
On Tuesday, Mendoza will make his only scheduled pre-draft visit with the Raiders, getting to know the coaching staff and acclimated with the franchise’s facilities.
Mendoza, who won the Heisman Trophy and led Indiana to the school’s first-ever national title last season, may not see action right away afterthe Raiders’ signing of Kirk Cousins. But having a veteran quarterback alongside the rookiewill help the first-year signal callerwhether they choose to be patient or throw Mendoza right in.
