$2.6 million quarterback predicted to be ‘franchise QB’ for struggling NFL team

A premier college signal-caller is projected as the top selection for Las Vegas following a historic championship season.

This Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback capped off a perfect season with a College Football Playoff National Championship and is widely projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The pursuit of a foundational leader often defines the trajectory of a struggling professional football franchise for a decade. One specific organization finds itself at a crossroads after finishing at the bottom of the league in offensive production and scoring efficiency.

While the roster features veteran talent and defensive anchors, the lack of a consistent presence under center has capped the ceiling of a storied brand that is desperate to return to postseason relevance.

Scouts and analysts are currently fixated on a collegiate star who recently orchestrated one of the most improbable turnarounds in the history of the sport. This player transformed a program once defined by its losing record into a national powerhouse that captured its first championship title.

His rise from an unheralded recruit to a household name has fundamentally shifted the landscape of the upcoming selection process as teams begin to prioritize personality and grit alongside physical traits.

The young man in question is more than just a talented passer; he brings a level of community impact and personal character that is rare in modern athletics. His performance during a historic undefeated season earned him the most prestigious individual trophy in the college game while solidifying his status as a premier prospect.

Experts believe his combination of arm strength and mental processing makes him the definitive answer for a team looking to secure its future.

Fernando Mendoza is the projected first overall pick for the Las Vegas Raiders

Former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel recently conducted an extensive film study on Indiana Hoosiers star Fernando Mendoza and came away convinced of his professional potential.

Mendoza carries a $2.6 million valuation and has proven that his ability to lead a locker room is just as valuable as his performance on the field. Daniel highlighted the specific traits that separate the Heisman Trophy winner from other prospects in the 2026 class while making a bold prediction about his draft slot.

"This is why Fernando Mendoza is going to be the No. 1 pick," Daniel said while breaking down the tape of the Indiana signal-caller. "It's not even close. Not only the smarts of Fernando, but everything else in between."

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) celebrates after the Hoosiers' title win. | Rich Janzaruk/Herald-Times / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The analyst, who stated in a social media post that Mendoza will be a franchise quarterback for the Raiders, noted that the decision is based on more than physical tools alone, as the player's intelligence stands out in high-pressure situations. Daniel emphasized that the quarterback's mental edge and leadership make him the ideal choice for a Raiders team that needs a franchise game changer.

The Raiders currently hold the top selection and are expected to target the Indiana quarterback to revitalize an offense that struggled throughout the previous season. Mendoza views his role as a football player as a platform to spread joy and positive influence, which aligns with the leadership qualities the Las Vegas front office desires.

This is exactly why Fernando Mendoza is going to be a Franchise QB for #RaiderNation

QB Draft Series exclusively on Patreon is breaking down Mendoza & his fit with Raiders & Kubiak.

20 minute All-22 style breakdown 🔽
🎥: https://t.co/tQxlceeu5U https://t.co/6q3E07j2MR pic.twitter.com/2BIaNrzwUZ

— Chase Daniel (@ChaseDaniel) February 2, 2026

His background as a high-level processor and his reputation for being exceptionally tough have made him the consensus choice for the first overall pick.

The transition from a historic college career to the professional ranks will require Mendoza to maintain the unbridled optimism that fueled the Hoosiers to a title. He has often stated that his mission is to impact the lives of others in a positive way through the catalyst of sports.

As the draft approaches, the connection between the Indiana star and the Silver and Black continues to grow stronger among league insiders. The 2026 NFL Draft will be held in Pittsburgh from April 23 to 25.