HENDERSON, Nev. — The Las Vegas Raiders have officially locked up the face of their future. The team announced Thursday that No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza has signed his rookie contract, completing deals with all 10 members of the Raiders’ 2026 NFL Draft class ahead of the start of training camp.
Mendoza’s agreement is a four-year, $57.27 million fully guaranteed contract that also includes the standard fifth-year team option for first-round selections.
With Mendoza now under contract, the Raiders enter training camp without any unsigned draft picks. Rookies reported to the team’s Henderson headquarters on Thursday, while veterans are scheduled to arrive on July 28. Las Vegas will hold its first full training camp practice on July 29 as the franchise begins preparations for the 2026 season.
League-wide, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Ty Simpson is now the lone unsigned first-round selection from the 2026 NFL Draft.
Mendoza becomes the Raiders’ first No. 1 overall draft pick since quarterback JaMarcus Russell in 2007. Placing enormous expectations on the former Indiana standout as he begins his NFL career. Despite the lofty draft status, the Raiders appear committed to taking a measured approach with the rookie’s development.
Patience Is the Plan
Las Vegas signed Cousins during the offseason with the expectation that the experienced veteran could serve as the team’s Week 1 starter if needed. The arrangement allows first-year head coach Klint Kubiak and general manager John Spytek to bring Mendoza along at a comfortable pace instead of forcing the rookie into action before he’s fully prepared.
If Mendoza proves ready during training camp and preseason, he’ll have every opportunity to earn the starting job. If not, learning behind a veteran like Cousins could provide valuable experience as he adjusts to the speed and complexity of the NFL.
The Future Begins Now
Regardless of who takes the first snap of the regular season. Thursday marked an important milestone for both Mendoza and the Raiders organization.
The contract is signed. Training camp is underway. Now, one of the NFL’s most anticipated quarterback competitions officially begins. With the Raiders hoping their newest franchise quarterback can eventually lead the Silver and Black back into championship contention.
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Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
