Raiders Have First Pick Again After Draft Failures

Since their last Super Bowl appearance in 2002, the Raiders have cycled through 15 head coaches and 27 starting quarterbacks with only two playoff appearances and no wins. Their previous No. 1 selection in 2007, JaMarcus Russell, lasted just three seasons before his career ended.

This year, Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza of Indiana is expected to be the top pick, joining a roster of newcomers that includes center Tyler Linderbaum, linebackers Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker, and edge rusher Kwity Paye. Owner Mark Davis expressed confidence in GM John Spytek and coach Klint Kubiak, noting their collaborative approach as the team hopes Mendoza can be the franchise quarterback they need.