Albert Breer’s Takeaways: Raiders Have Done Their Homework on Fernando Mendoza

Key Points:

• The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after extensive scouting and evaluation, including multiple live game viewings and personal meetings. The team is continuing in-depth preparations to ensure confidence in their potential franchise quarterback.
• Jaxon Smith-Njigba's record $168.6 million contract extension is expected to impact contract negotiations for other premium position players, potentially raising salary expectations for top receivers, pass rushers, offensive tackles, and corners in the NFL.
• NFL and NFL Referees Association negotiations remain stalled over salary increases and quality-control measures, with the league preparing contingency plans including replacement officials and expanded replay powers in case of a referee lockout before the 2025 season.
• The Cleveland Browns are advised to consider trading Myles Garrett to align with their rebuilding timeline, as the team's quarterback of the future is unlikely to arrive before 2027, and trading Garrett could yield valuable draft capital to build a young core.
• The Seattle Seahawks sale is anticipated to be a high-value transaction potentially exceeding $10 billion, influenced by recent NFL franchise sales and the prospect of an NBA expansion team in Seattle, with league owners expected to discuss the timeline and potential buyers during current meetings.