Raiders Quarterback Fernando Mendoza Highlights Team's Hispanic Fan Base

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza stated during a press conference on Friday that the team has the most Hispanic fan base in the NFL. He was selected No. 1 overall in the recent NFL Draft. Mendoza highlighted the franchise's history with Hispanic figures.

"The history of the Raiders, especially the Hispanic history, is like no other. I believe it's probably the most Hispanic fan base and legends like Mr. [Jim] Plunkett, like Mr. [Tom] Flores. I mean, all those legendary Hispanic idols and cornerstones of the franchise," Mendoza said.

They came to the United States and built their lives as Americans. His maternal grandfather, Alberto Espino, previously told The Washington Post, "We all thought it was temporary." Mendoza expressed that it means a lot to him to join the franchise and help carry the torch for the Hispanic community. He added that he must prove himself and looks forward to connecting with the community.

Transition to the NFL Mendoza enters the NFL following a strong season at Indiana, described as one of the best by a quarterback in college football history. He acknowledged the responsibility and honor of leading the Raiders, a historic NFL franchise.

Mendoza stated, "It's a huge responsibility, but it's also a huge honor to honor the legacy. The Raiders are a core historic franchise and one of the faces of the NFL, and I feel like, again, I need to prove it and earn it every single day. " The article also mentioned Geno Smith reacting to a reported move to the Raiders, stating "God is the greatest," though details on the move were not provided.