Raiders fans’ confidence is high this week
BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA - APRIL 01: Fernando Mendoza #15 of the Indiana Hoosiers throws the ball during the 2026 Indiana Pro Day at John Mellencamp Pavilion on April 01, 2026 in Bloomington, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) | Getty ImagesWe all know the NFL draft hasn't been overly kind to the Las Vegas Raiders over the years.
So, the fan base has had a right to be a bit nervous about the event leading into most years.
But this year is not most years. The Raiders own the No. 1 overall pick in Thursday's first round and are fully expected to select Indiana's Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the pick.
And fans, needless to say are stoked about it.
According to a study by Sportsbookreview.com, Raiders are second most confident fan base in the NFL leading up this draft based on a survey. Philadelphia Eagles' fans are ranked as the most confident bunch heading into the draft.
The Raider's fan base was ranked 25th in confidence heading into last year's draft.
This year, though, fueled by the Mendoza hype, the confidence in the fan base is sky high.
In other Raiders' news:
- Biggest needs: PFF has the biggest draft needs for all 32 teams.
- What a journey: SI chronicles Mendoza's unlikely journey to this week.