Fernando Mendoza’s Wild Blockbuster Trade Proposal is Going Viral—And It Shockingly Makes Total Sense
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
Fernando Mendoza has become the center of one of the biggest draft debates in the NFL, even months before the draft arrives.
The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to hold the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Many people around the league believe the Raiders plan to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. After his record-setting season, that idea feels almost certain.
Mendoza led Indiana to an undefeated season. He completed 72 percent of his passes for 3,535 yards. He threw 41 touchdowns with just six interceptions. Scouts like his calm presence and control of the offense. The Raiders see him as a long-term answer at quarterback.
Now, trade rumors have shaken things up. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that at least one NFL executive expects the Baltimore Ravens to consider trading Lamar Jackson. Fowler also mentioned the Raiders as a possible team to watch. That rumor quickly got enough attention across the league.
One NFL evaluator told Fowler, “It just seems like there’s been some consternation there with Lamar and the Ravens, and this would be the ultimate Mark Davis move, I’m not even convinced everybody with Vegas would be on board with it but it would instantly solve their quarterback problems.”
The source also said the idea fits owner Mark Davis. The report suggested a deal built around the No. 1 pick, Mendoza’s rights, and extra 2027 picks.
Fans Push Back On Lamar Jackson Idea
Fans reacted fast. Many rejected the idea of sending Mendoza and future picks to Baltimore. They focused on timing, money, and roster depth.
Who says no?👀 pic.twitter.com/Vqri33r0uX
— Polymarket Football (@PolymarketBlitz) January 22, 2026
“That’s a bad deal for the Raiders,” one fan wrote online.
That’s a bad deal for the Raiders.
— Dylan Campbell (@jackkmehoffbish) January 22, 2026
Another fan stressed patience. “Raiders aren’t on same timeline as Lamar and a cost controlled QB is the best asset in football,” the fan said.
@Olisemeka91 @HendyLA raiders say no, and it’s not close. Raiders aren’t on same timeline as Lamar and a cost controlled QB is the best asset in football.
— A Sho (@LAshowkatian) January 22, 2026
Others worried about the roster around Jackson. “Lamar Jackson is not going to single handedly turn that waste of a franchise around,” another fan argued. “If LJ comes in there than that line and lack of skill players will end his career.”
Lamar Jackson is not going to single handedly turn that waste of a franchise around. That team has so many self inflicted wounds dating back 15 years plus. It will take a complete overhaul. If LJ comes in there than that line and lack of skill players will end his career.
— Rick Decker (@1750agreed) January 22, 2026
Fernando Mendoza stayed calm amid the noise. He spoke on Friday on NBC’s “TODAY” show. Co-host Carson Daly asked him about Las Vegas. Mendoza showed respect without locking himself to one city.
“The Raiders have a great culture, have a great coaching staff, great ownership group,” Mendoza said. “Those are legit guys. I’d be happy to end anywhere.”
The Raiders now have a clear choice. They can draft a young quarterback who fits a new build-up. They can also chase a proven star who owns two MVP awards.
Draft night will bring the final answer. Until then, Fernando Mendoza remains the name that drives every argument.
