2026 NFL Mock Draft: Buckeye Takeover & Only One QB
The 2026 NFL Draft prospect pool has shifted dramatically following an aggressive free-agency period that saw veteran running backs and cornerbacks move across the board. With the Las Vegas Raiders holding the No. 1 pick, the primary storyline centers on a historic defensive concentration: the overwhelming depth of the Ohio State defensive pipeline.
For the first time in history, we may see one school provide nearly 20 percent of the first-round talent. Teams are now forced to choose between addressing offensive needs and securing blue-chip defensive anchors from a Buckeyes unit that dominated college football. MORE: No.
1 Transfer Portal QB Described as ‘Turnover-Prone’ 1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza (15) smiles as he celebrates after the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.
The Raiders make the most predictable move of the draft by securing the Heisman-winning Mendoza. Following the hiring of Klint Kubiak, Las Vegas needed a surgical passer to fix an offense that ranked 26th in passing efficiency last season. Mendoza was spectacular in 2025, leading the nation with 41 touchdowns and a 182.
9 passer rating while guiding Indiana to a 16-0 championship-winning season. By pairing his 72% completion rate with Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum, the Raiders have built a stable floor for their new franchise signal-caller. 2.
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