Jets trade proposal convinces Raiders to pass on Fernando Mendoza with just two draft picks

The New York Jets are picking second overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. Fernando Mendoza is slated to go first overall to the Las Vegas Raiders, leaving the Jets without a viable quarterback in this year's draft.

It's a tricky situation for the Jets, as ideally, they'd have a quarterback readily available. But what if the Jets make an offer to the Raiders that's hard to refuse? They might be able to convince the Raiders to pass on Mendoza.

Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report proposed such a scenario. This proposal from Knox would be a dream come true for the Jets, as it would give the Jets the first overall pick and Mendoza for just two draft picks.

Jets' trade proposal is dream scenario to land Fernando Mendoza

"Jets Get: 2026 1st-round pick (No. 1 overall). Raiders Get: 2026 1st-round pick (No. 2 overall), 2026 1st-round pick (No. 16 overall)," Knox proposes.

This trade proposal from Knox is exactly what the Jets need. Trading just an extra first-rounder to land Mendoza would be ideal for the Jets.

They would still have all three of their first-rounders in 2026, and two draft picks in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

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But, as Knox writes, "it feels extremely unlikely Las Vegas would make the move." Moving off of first overall and Mendoza doesn't seem feasible for the Raiders at this point.

However, Knox pointed out how if the Raiders complete their scouting and interview process, and come away concerned Mendoza isn't a "sure thing," then a trade-down with the Jets could be possible.

This scenario isn't likely, but if it does occur, and the Jets only have to give up their second and 16th overall draft picks, it would be a great move for the Jets to make.

While Knox says this would be a "steep cost" to pay, it's something that the Jets should have no problems paying if they can actually make it happen.

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