The NFL draft kicks off Thursday night in Pittsburgh, and the Las Vegas Raiders hold the first pick. After months of speculation, the consensus is clear: they will select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
General manager John Spytek has said he is open to trade offers, but the Raiders’ offseason moves have all pointed toward Mendoza. “Don’t expect anything crazy now,” the final mock draft notes.
Following Mendoza, the draft becomes unpredictable. The New York Jets are projected to take Ohio State edge rusher Arvell Reese at No. 2, a close call over Texas Tech’s David Bailey. At No. 3, the Arizona Cardinals could pick tackle Francis Mauigoa from Miami, but they are likely to trade the pick if a good offer comes in.
Other notable projections include Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love going to the Washington Commanders at No. 7, and Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate to the Cleveland Browns at No. 6. The mock draft assumes no trades, though many are expected.
The first round concludes with the Seattle Seahawks taking Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price at No. 32. Seattle has only four picks in this draft and may shop the selection.
