The current draft order sets the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 1 and the Jets at No. 2, meaning New York would need to maneuver via a trade to secure Mendoza if the Raiders stay put. While a deal seems unlikely from the Raiders’ perspective, the chatter centers on whether the Jets would be willing to give up significant draft capital to move up.
NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah appeared on The Rich Eisen Show to weigh in on the possibility, suggesting there is real, if uncertain, momentum behind such a move. He indicated that, given the Jets’ accumulated picks, they could explore prying the top selection away from Las Vegas if the chance presented itself.
Eisen pressed whether the Jets would trade up for Mendoza, and Jeremiah responded affirmatively, saying he “100 percent” believes they would pursue the opportunity. The exchange underscores the speculative but persistent buzz surrounding Mendoza and New York’s draft strategy.
Yet, the chatter should be viewed as rumors and not a certainty. Jeremiah noted that while there is talk about a NY–No. 1 trade, the Raiders are reportedly enamored with Mendoza and may be reluctant to part with the top pick.
As the draft nears on April 23, 2026, the situation remains fluid. The report highlights potential offensive-firepower upgrades for the Jets but stops short of confirming any trade plans, reflecting the uncertain, rumor-driven path to Mendoza’s possible arrival in New York.
This summary is based on reporting from ClutchPoints, which framed the discussion around whether the Jets would pursue the No. 1 pick to land Fernando Mendoza.
