2026 NFL Draft Highlights: Fernando Mendoza Selected First Overall, Rams Surprise with Ty Simpson at No. 13
NFL draft 2026: Mendoza goes No 1 as Rams surprise with move for QB Ty Simpson at No 13
The Guardian
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In the 2026 NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza from Indiana as the first overall pick. The Los Angeles Rams shocked fans by choosing Alabama's Ty Simpson at No. 13, despite having NFL MVP Matthew Stafford as their current starter, indicating a strategic move for the future.
- 01Fernando Mendoza was selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders after a standout season at Indiana.
- 02The Los Angeles Rams picked Ty Simpson at No. 13, surprising many analysts who expected him to go in the second round.
- 03Matthew Stafford, the Rams' current quarterback and NFL MVP, will remain the starter for the time being.
- 04The New York Jets made significant moves, including selecting edge rusher David Bailey at No. 2 and tight end Kenyon Sadiq at No. 16.
- 05This marks the fourth consecutive year a quarterback has been selected first overall in the NFL Draft.
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The 2026 NFL Draft opened with the Las Vegas Raiders selecting Fernando Mendoza, the standout quarterback from Indiana, as the first overall pick. Mendoza, who led Indiana to a national title and completed 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and only six interceptions last season, is eager to prove himself in the NFL. The surprise of the night came when the Los Angeles Rams chose Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson at No. 13, despite having NFL MVP Matthew Stafford on their roster. Head coach Sean McVay emphasized that Stafford remains the team's leader, but the selection of Simpson indicates the Rams are planning for the future. Other notable picks included the New York Jets selecting edge rusher David Bailey at No. 2 and tight end Kenyon Sadiq at No. 16, showcasing their commitment to bolstering their roster. This draft continues the trend of quarterbacks being selected first overall, marking the fourth consecutive year this has occurred.
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The selection of Mendoza and Simpson highlights the shifting dynamics in NFL quarterback positions, impacting team strategies and fan expectations.
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