First impressions of Fernando Mendoza: From 'I did...
Key takeaways
- Mendoza was the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL draft and fresh off a stellar college football season, in which he won the Heisman Trophy and guided Indiana to its first national championship.
- "That's really what you want for a guy like that," Tucker said.
- Being the top pick and the future face of the franchise can be a heavy burden.
Why this matters: a sports story that could shift standings, legacies, or fan conversations.
Mendoza was the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL draft and fresh off a stellar college football season, in which he won the Heisman Trophy and guided Indiana to its first national championship. Tucker, however, said Mendoza came to the Raiders' facility every day as if he were an undrafted rookie, hoping to earn a spot on the 53-man roster.
"That's really what you want for a guy like that," Tucker said. "He's got a bright future."
Being the top pick and the future face of the franchise can be a heavy burden. But during the Raiders' offseason workout program, Mendoza impressed his teammates and coaches with how he has handled the added weight on his shoulders, while displaying strong leadership qualities and relentless drive to be the best.