2026 NFL Draft Preview: Mendoza, the Raiders, and the Biggest Storylines Heading Into Pittsburgh

The 2026 NFL Draft is nine days away, and the biggest question at the top of the board has already been answered — at least in the minds of most analysts.

Fernando Mendoza, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner out of Indiana, is widely expected to go No. 1 overall to the Las Vegas Raiders. His accuracy, toughness, and ability to perform under pressure — including a 93.2 PFF passing grade throughout the Hoosiers' postseason — have separated him from the pack for months. The Raiders even brought in Kirk Cousins on what amounts to a one-year bridge deal, giving them the luxury of developing Mendoza without throwing him into the fire on day one.

But if Mendoza's selection feels inevitable, the real drama begins at No. 2.

The New York Jets hold the second pick and appear torn between multiple directions. Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, projected as a potential top-five selection, is generating significant buzz. Meanwhile, the wide receiver market looks like it could slide deep into Round 1, with only a handful of pass catchers expected to come off the board in the top 15.

One of the most intriguing mock draft storylines involves the Dallas Cowboys. Multiple analysts project Jerry Jones making a blockbuster trade up to No. 3 to address a glaring roster need. The Kansas City Chiefs, who acquired an extra first-round pick in the Trent McDuffie trade, are also expected to be active.

The draft will air April 23-25 on ESPN, ABC, and NFL Network from Pittsburgh. Round 1 kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on Thursday, with Rounds 2-3 on Friday and Rounds 4-7 on Saturday.

For a league that never truly has an offseason, the next chapter starts now.

For a league that never truly has an offseason, the next chapter starts now.