Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza appears destined to hear his name called first when the NFL Draft begins next Thursday, giving him the opportunity to develop under veteran Kirk Cousins before taking over as the franchise signal-caller.
The Heisman Trophy recipient, who guided Indiana to its inaugural national title, stands as the clear consensus choice for the opening selection. Rather than attending the draft ceremony in Pittsburgh, Mendoza has opted to mark the milestone moment surrounded by loved ones in Miami.
While the top selection seems settled, genuine uncertainty begins with the second overall choice. The New York Jets were widely anticipated to select Ohio State pass rusher Arvell Reese, but Texas Tech defensive end David Bailey has generated significant buzz in recent weeks.
The Associated Press has released its third mock draft projection ahead of Thursday’s selections:
Mendoza brings exceptional accuracy as a pocket quarterback, combining ideal physical dimensions with composure and leadership qualities. Las Vegas has assembled offensive weapons including Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty while investing over $250 million in free agency additions. Cousins provides veteran guidance in the quarterback room, while part-owner Tom Brady offers championship expertise. The Raiders haven’t captured a playoff victory since their Super Bowl appearance following the 2002 campaign and have qualified for postseason play just twice since then. Mendoza represents their hope for a cornerstone quarterback.
The projection maintains Reese as the Jets’ selection. His exceptional athleticism was showcased by a 4.47-second 40-yard dash time, and his versatility playing both linebacker and edge positions demonstrates his rare talent. Reese possesses the ability to become an elite pass rusher with immediate impact potential for New York.
Bailey represents another supremely athletic edge defender with tremendous upside potential. Arizona could explore trading down to accumulate additional draft capital or focus on offensive line improvements. Bailey would pair with Josh Sweat to create a formidable pass-rushing tandem.
Tennessee has been active in free agency, overhauling their secondary and adding defensive depth while bringing in wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson as another target for Cam Ward. They face a difficult decision between Love and providing new head coach Robert Saleh with a defensive star like edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. or linebacker Sonny Styles. If general manager Mike Borgonzi follows best available talent, Love emerges as the choice.
Styles’ outstanding combine showing has elevated him into numerous top-five projections. While protecting Jaxson Dart remains a priority for New York, making them candidates for the draft’s premier offensive lineman, Styles represents an exceptionally talented defensive prospect.
Tate excels as a reliable route runner with sure hands and sufficient speed to become a premier playmaker. Cleveland added three veteran offensive linemen but could still target tackle help. Tate provides them with a number one receiver option that’s difficult to overlook.
Delane stands as the draft’s top coverage cornerback. His addition would significantly strengthen a defense lacking depth in the secondary.
Bain offers versatility as a pass rusher capable of lining up outside or inside against guards, creating favorable matchups. He would become a valuable asset for New Orleans.
Mauigoa brings three years of starting experience at right tackle and would replace Jawaan Taylor while enhancing Patrick Mahomes’ protection. Adding a playmaking receiver or edge rusher also remains possible, but Mauigoa represents strong value at this position.
Downs is an elite, multi-faceted playmaker who would bolster a struggling defense that has limited Cincinnati in recent seasons. Downs possesses top-five talent but slides due to positional value considerations.
Following trades involving Jaylen Waddle and the release of Tyreek Hill, Miami must provide Malik Willis with a top receiving target. Lemon is an elite playmaker who creates difficult matchup problems for defenses from the slot position.
Mesidor is an older prospect at 25 but demonstrates clear talent on film. He generates outside pressure while remaining solid against the run, addressing priorities Jerry Jones emphasized after trading Micah Parsons.
An outstanding route runner with speed who makes catches in traffic. Los Angeles showed interest in high-profile receivers, so selecting Tyson would upgrade a dynamic group featuring All-Pro Puka Nacua and Davante Adams.
Ioane addresses a significant need for Baltimore along their interior offensive line while fitting their run-blocking system perfectly.
Scouts praise Faulk’s leadership qualities alongside his obvious talent. Tampa Bay needs an impact pass rusher, and Faulk fits general manager Jason Licht’s character standards. Trading down for additional selections also remains possible.
Boston combines strength, speed, and elite ball skills. His frame at 6-foot-4, 212 pounds matches receivers that new offensive coordinator Frank Reich has utilized in his system. The Jets could trade down while still landing Boston or Omar Cooper Jr. and accumulating more picks.
Proctor began starting at left tackle as a freshman and surrendered only two sacks across three seasons. His impressive size at 6-foot-7, 352 pounds comes with considerable athleticism. Proctor even contributed five rushing attempts for 16 yards.
Thieneman impressed at the combine with a 4.36-second 40-yard dash that exceeded some of the NFL’s top receivers. As a three-year starter, he would immediately contribute to Brian Flores’ defense.
Carolina improved their defense through free agency by acquiring edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and linebacker Devin Lloyd. If Sadiq remains available, they would land the draft’s best tight end, providing Bryce Young with a potential primary target.
McCoy is a reliable cornerback with exceptional ball skills frequently projected to Dallas at the 12th selection. The Cowboys would acquire a defensive back capable of anchoring their secondary.
Freeling possesses elite athleticism and is considered a potential top-10 selection. He requires additional experience after starting just one season on the right side. Freeling has the athletic ability to adjust to a new position.
Woods is a powerful, versatile defensive lineman who embodies the type of player coach Jim Harbaugh wants on defense.
Miller started 54 collegiate games and can contribute immediately if Philadelphia needs him. He provides an eventual replacement for right tackle Lane Johnson.
Parker’s production declined after strong 2024 numbers, but he’s a strong, powerful edge defender with flourishing potential. His selection would make three consecutive Clemson players in this projection.
Chicago lost several secondary starters, making a defensive back addition possible, but a strong pass rusher also provides significant help. Young is a disruptive force who brings energy and leadership.
Despite acquiring D.J. Moore, another playmaking receiver remains an option. Edge rusher also ranks as a priority, and Howell has demonstrated his ability to reach quarterbacks and finish plays.
Concepcion is a speedy, elusive receiver who would give Brock Purdy and San Francisco another top target and offensive playmaker. Despite signing Mike Evans in free agency, the 49ers cannot pass up a confident player who has already declared himself the draft’s best receiver.
McDonald represents another Buckeyes player entering the first round. He’s a natural run defender who will occupy the middle of the defensive line.
After providing Mahomes with a blocker at the ninth pick, Kansas City adds a potential top target late in the round. Cooper is a versatile playmaker known for generating yards after catches.
Terrell is an athletic cornerback projected higher in the draft. Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson is possible if still available, but Miami signed Malik Willis.
Iheanachor is an athletic former basketball player with ideal size who needs development time but projects as a potential immediate starter.
Price replaces the departed Super Bowl MVP and provides Seattle with a natural runner in the backfield. With Kenneth Walker III gone and Zach Charbonnet recovering from knee injury, Price fills a need. Seattle could trade out of the first round, add more picks, and potentially acquire Price early in the second round.
