FernandoMendoza

News: 4 days agoMendoza remains in the mix for the Raiders' starting quarterback job along with veteran Kirk Cousins, Vinny Bonsignore of the California Post reports.

Spin: The first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Mendoza opened training camp as the No. 2 QB and has remained there through the preseason, but he has earned some reps with the first-team offense along the way in both practices and exhibitions. He wrapped up his three preseason contests having completed 25 of 45 passes for 240 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. Until coach Klint Kubiak makes a decision, ther potential exists for Mendoza to be under center for Las Vegas in Week 1 versus the Dolphins

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Mendoza was selected by the Raiders with the No. 1 overall pick in April's draft. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner and national champion, Mendoza is a big, pocket quarterback with elite accuracy (his career 7.1% off-target rate is easily the best in this rookie class) and a solid arm. Mendoza's 2025 campaign at Indiana included class-best marks in passing TDs (41) and QBR (90.3). He posted a 65-440-7 rushing line in 16 games last season and figures to add some value with his legs in the pros. Mendoza will get some run as a rookie, but his supporting cast isn't overly impressive and he will not start in Week 1 (Kirk Cousins will get the call), so there's not much sense in drafting him in most formats. He'll be worth a speculative add only when he's named Las Vegas' starter.