After the Ravens’ decision to part ways with John Harbaugh, the NFL coaching carousel and quarterback market have suddenly opened up in dramatic fashion.
With Harbaugh gone after an 18-season run in Baltimore, franchises in need of an established leader are scrutinizing every possible coaching and quarterback option.
Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders now own the No. 1 overall pick in a draft class headlined by a potential franchise signal-caller. In that environment, the Raiders should seriously be eyeing Fernando Mendoza, the Indiana quarterback widely projected as a top pick, as their foundational building block.
Drafting Mendoza would give Las Vegas a young, cost-controlled leader around whom they can construct a long-term identity, but if there is any other option, it is to call Baltimore about a trade for Lamar Jackson.
*Prediction*
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If there’s any reason the Raiders don’t select Mendoza at No. 1, they should aggressively pursue a trade for a proven star like Lamar Jackson instead.
A blockbuster trade for a quarterback with established MVP-caliber production could immediately elevate the franchise and energize a roster that still needs wins now, especially in a competitive AFC West.
Whether Las Vegas builds through the draft with a high-upside rookie like Mendoza or pivots toward a ready-made playmaker like Jackson, the Raiders’ No. 1 pick is the centerpiece of a pivotal offseason that could redefine their trajectory.
Fernando Mendoza is widely regarded as an elite quarterback prospect because he dominates with efficiency, poise, and production: he led the nation in completion percentage and touchdown-to-interception ratio while guiding Indiana to a historic, undefeated season and a Heisman Trophy.
Physically, Mendoza has the size and arm talent to fit an NFL scheme, combining a prototypical 6′5″ frame with accurate ball placement and leadership qualities that can elevate the Raiders offense, so if they don’t want to make a trade, sticking and picking is not a bad option.