The Raiders draft process starts now — and this episode is about more than just making the first pick.
In this episode of the Silver & Black Sports Network Podcast, Jesse Merrick is joined by Dalton Wasserman of Pro Football Focus to run a Raiders mock draft — with a focus on strategy, roster construction, and how to properly build around a franchise quarterback.
Yes, the No. 1 pick is obvious.
Yes, it’s Fernando Mendoza.
But this conversation goes deeper than that.
Dalton breaks down:
What Mendoza actually does well on tape
Why the “one-read / RPO QB” narrative doesn’t hold up
Which parts of his game translate immediately to the NFL
And how the Raiders should build around him from Day One
From there, we dive into Rounds 2 and 3, identifying realistic targets Raider Nation should be watching closely to continue building this roster the right way.
This isn’t just draft talk — it’s a blueprint.
👇 QUESTION OF THE DAY 👇
If you were calling the shots, how would you approach this draft?
Mendoza at No. 1, then load up on defense?
Dominate the trenches on both sides of the ball?
Or take a different approach entirely?
Drop your strategy in the comments — let’s talk it out.
Plus, stick around for the back half of the show as Matt Perrault joins us with:
A take on Mendoza that not everyone will like
Updates on the Raiders coaching carousel
And best bets for the AFC & NFC Championship games
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