staradvertiser
Raiders finally sign No.
1 draft pick Fernando Mendoza Fernando Mendoza, the top pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, has signed his rookie contract with the Las Vegas Raiders, he and the team announced Thursday.
Mendoza was the last of the teams 10 draft picks to sign fourth-round cornerback Jermod McCoy inked his rookie deal on Wednesday.
The contract is worth $57,271,500 over four years with a team option available for a fifth season.
Such figures are slotted by the NFLs rookie scale; other details within the agreement, such as the schedule of payments for his $38.1 million signing bonus, were negotiable.
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Ty Simpson, taken 13th overall, is the only remaining 2026 first-rounder who has yet to sign his rookie deal.
Im excited to get this thing signed, Mendoza said in the teams social media post.
Excited to be a part of the silver and black.
Cant wait.
Appreciate you guys for all your support.
Lets get this thing rolling.
Raiders rookies reported to training camp on Thursday, with veterans set to join them on Tuesday.
Mendoza is expected to start the 2026 season in a backup role behind veteran Kirk Cousins.
Don't miss out on what's happening! Stay in touch with breaking news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox.
It's FREE! Mendoza led the University of Indiana to a national championship in January, winning the Heisman Trophy along the way.
During his final season with the Hoosiers, he threw for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns and six interceptions.
He also rushed for seven touchdowns.
This article originally appeared in The Athletic.
2026 The New York Times Company.