"Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana* The Raiders haven't drafted a QB in the first round since 2007 (JaMarcus Russell). They're in desperate need of a franchise quarterback after the Geno Smith trade didn't work out, and Mendoza provides a long-term solution for a franchise that has been looking for a QB since Derek Carr was released following the 2022 season. Mendoza's poise, toughness and accuracy stood out in his lone season with the Hoosiers, as he won the Heisman Trophy while leading them to a 14-0 record. With tight end Brock Bowers and running back Ashton Jeanty, the Raiders have building blocks on offense that would help Mendoza thrive right away."
"With Kyler Murray possibly leaving this offseason, the Cardinals have a major question mark at quarterback. But with Mendoza and Moore coming off the board, Arizona would pivot to the offensive line. Mauigoa is one of the cleanest evaluations of this draft class as a rock-solid, consistent lineman who stands 6-foot-6, 315 pounds. He's the model of consistency and would fit as a plug-and-play option on an offensive line that has major right tackle questio"
The draft order for picks 1–18 is known; ESPN's Football Power Index is used to project picks 19–32, covering slots for 14 playoff teams. Four franchises hold multiple first-round selections: the Rams, Jets, Browns and Cowboys. The No. 1 pick projects to be quarterback Fernando Mendoza from Indiana, noted for Heisman-winning production, poise, toughness and accuracy in a 14-0 season and immediate complementary pieces such as Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty. Dante Moore and Francis Mauigoa figure in the early first round; Arizona would pivot to the offensive line if quarterbacks are unavailable, valuing Mauigoa's 6-foot-6, 315-pound, plug-and-play profile.
Read at ESPN.com
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