The NFL Draft kicks off Thursday in Pittsburgh, and all eyes are on quarterback Fernando Mendoza, projected to be the first overall selection. The Heisman Trophy winner led Indiana to a national championship and is expected to join Cam Newton and Joe Burrow as Heisman winners and national champions to go No. 1 overall.
After last year's shocking slide of Shedeur Sanders to the fifth round, this year promises drama, especially with the Las Vegas Raiders holding the top pick. The Raiders, along with several other quarterback-needy teams, will likely target Mendoza, who is the clear standout in a weak QB class.
Key Players to Watch
Beyond Mendoza, the draft is rich in defensive talent. Pass rushers David Bailey and Rueben Bain Jr. are expected to go early, along with Ohio State standouts Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, Carnell Tate, and Caleb Downs. The wide receiver class features Makai Lemon and Jordyn Tyson, while Jeremiyah Love tops the running back ranks.
Intriguing quarterback prospects include athletic Cole Payton, who could be a hybrid player, and undersized Diego Pavia, the Heisman runner-up. Carson Beck slipped after a poor year at Georgia but rebounded at Miami.
International Prospects
Nigerian-born offensive tackle Max Iheanachor could sneak into the first round after starting football just five years ago. The 6'6", 321-pound tackle has an NFL logo tattoo and impressive upside. Fellow Nigerian Uar Bernard, a raw defensive player, may be a late-round pick through the International Player Pathway program. Top British prospect Seydou Traore, a tight end from Arkansas State and Mississippi State, could be selected on day three.
Draft Details
The event runs April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, marking the city's first draft since 1948. The first round starts Thursday at 8 p.m. ET (1 a.m. BST Friday), with each team getting eight minutes per pick. Rounds 2-3 are Friday, and rounds 4-7 on Saturday. Up to 700,000 fans are expected.