The 2026 NFL Draft ignited Thursday night with a seismic move as the Las Vegas Raiders selected Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the coveted No. 1 overall pick. Mendoza’s selection sets the tone for what proved to be a first round filled with shockers, steals, and bold roster moves by multiple franchises across the league.
Mendoza, widely regarded as the nation’s best college quarterback last season, impressed scouts especially with his poise under pressure and clutch performance. Analysts quickly handed the Raiders an A grade for the pick, praising his fit in coach Klint Kubiak’s offensive scheme and projecting immediate impact.
Blockbuster Picks and Surprises Shake Up Early Draft Order
Following the Raiders’ headline-making choice, the New York Jets flexed their draft capital by selecting three players in the first round, including Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey at No. 2, who earned a more tempered C- grade due to inconsistent run defense. Their most lauded pick came at No. 30, when they took rugged receiver Omar Cooper Jr. from Indiana, who many grade as an A+ steal to bolster their receiving corps alongside tight end Kenyon Sadiq.
The Dallas Cowboys’ grab of Ohio State safety Caleb Downs at No. 11 electrified many with an A grade, instantly upgrading a beleaguered secondary with a versatile leader capable of thriving in multiple cover schemes under new defensive coordinator Christian Parker.
One of the biggest surprises came at No. 13, when the Los Angeles Rams picked Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, a savvy move laying groundwork for the future after Stafford’s impending retirement. Simpson earned an A rating for his NFL-ready pocket mobility and anticipation despite a recent injury history.
Giants and Browns Dominate With High-Grade Selections
The New York Giants demonstrated a clear commitment to building a dominant defense and offensive line by selecting edge rusher Arvell Reese (Grade: A+) and Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa (Grade: A-). Reese’s rare combination of speed and power positions the Giants to boast one of the NFL’s most fearsome pass-rushing groups heading into next season.
The Cleveland Browns secured two first-round gems with the picks of offensive lineman Spencer Fano (Grade: A+) and wide receiver KC Concepcion (Grade: A+), the latter heralded as the draft’s top route runner and most dynamic field separator. Concepcion’s speed and versatility immediately address the Browns’ pressing need for explosive playmakers.
Miami, Baltimore, and Tampa Bay Land Game-Changers
The Miami Dolphins shored up offensive line depth with Alabama tackle Kadyn Proctor (Grade: A+) and added a cornerstone cornerback in Chris Johnson from San Diego State later in the round. Johnson impressed at the Senior Bowl and graded an A for his technical prowess despite modest physical traits.
The Baltimore Ravens snagged Penn State guard Vega Ioane (Grade: A), tackling a glaring need with a fundamentally sound and “boring” yet effective offensive line prospect. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers grabbed reigning college football defensive beast edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. (Grade: A+), whose relentless motor and power will be critical in revitalizing their defense.
Some Risky Moves and Developmental Picks Highlight Late Round
Teams like the Minnesota Vikings took gambles, such as selecting Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks at No. 18 despite recent foot surgeries that cloud his immediate availability (Grade: D). The Detroit Lions chose Clemson tackle Blake Miller at No. 17, prioritizing NHL-readiness over potential upside and earning a C grade from analysts.
Other late first-round picks focused on developmental potential, including the Steelers’ choice of Arizona State tackle Max Iheanachor, who has only five years of football experience but possesses rare physical traits (Grade: B+).
What’s Next
With the first round now complete, many teams face pivotal decisions in the upcoming days as they manage trades, player negotiations, and prepare for the later rounds. For franchises like the Raiders, Jets, and Giants, Thursday’s moves heavily shape their immediate championship outlooks. Fans across California and around the nation should expect another flurry of activity as the draft continues to unfold.
Stay tuned to The California Herald for ongoing draft grades, team report cards, and the latest updates on this rapidly evolving story.
