The Las Vegas Raiders made a huge splash in the NFL Draft by selecting Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. But the question on everyone's mind was: Would they bring any of his Hoosiers teammates along for the ride?
While there was plenty of buzz about the Raiders targeting wide receivers Omar Cooper and Elijah Sarratt, along with running back Kaelon Black, Mendoza ended up being the only player from Indiana's historic national championship team to hear his name called by Las Vegas on draft weekend. Still, the Raiders clearly weren't done mining the Hoosiers' talent pool.
In a savvy undrafted free agency move, the Silver and Black reportedly signed Indiana running back Roman Hemby and wide receiver E.J. Williams, while also inviting receiver Jonathan Brady to their rookie minicamp. Though these deals aren't official yet, they signal a clear strategy: the Raiders liked what they saw while studying Mendoza, and they're betting on his chemistry with his former teammates translating to the next level.
Hemby brings serious production to the table, rushing for 1,120 yards (an impressive 4.9 yards per carry) and seven touchdowns last season. He'll have a real shot at earning a roster spot behind star running back Ashton Jeanty and fourth-round pick Mike Washington.
Williams, a towering 6-foot-4, 203-pound target, hauled in 36 catches for 438 yards and six touchdowns while catching passes from Mendoza in 2024. His size and familiarity with his quarterback could make him a prime candidate for the practice squad—especially if the duo can rekindle their on-field magic during training camp and preseason action.
Brady, meanwhile, posted 14 receptions for 115 yards and three scores last season, offering another intriguing option as the Raiders look to build depth around their new franchise quarterback.
For fans of the Silver and Black, this undrafted haul is more than just a feel-good story—it's a smart play to surround Mendoza with familiar faces as he transitions to the pro game. And for gear enthusiasts, it's a reminder that chemistry on the field starts with the right fit, both in the locker room and in the stands.