The 2026 NFL draft kicked off on Thursday, with the Las Vegas Raiders making the first selection, choosing Indiana's Fernando Mendoza. Thousands of fans flocked to Pittsburgh's Acrisure Stadium to witness the next generation of football stars have their names called. This gallery, curated by AP photo editors, offers a visual recap of the event, capturing the key moments and atmosphere. The draft marked the beginning of a new season, with teams hoping to find the players who will shape their future. The selection of Mendoza by the Raiders set the tone for the event, highlighting the anticipation and excitement surrounding the draft. The presence of so many fans in Pittsburgh demonstrated the league's enduring popularity and the significance of this annual event. From the players' reactions to the fans' cheers, the photo gallery provides a comprehensive look at the draft's most memorable aspects. The images showcase the emotion and drama of the selections, offering viewers a close-up perspective of the event. The curated collection provides a lasting record of the draft's key moments, from the early picks to the later rounds.