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Raiders Quarterback Fernando Mendoza Impresses Staff in Early Practices
Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza has drawn positive reviews from team staff during initial offseason workouts. Veteran Kirk Cousins remains the expected starter for Week 1 of the 2026 season.
May 28, 5:03 PM·1m read1 source
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The Las Vegas Raiders are entering the 2026 NFL season with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins and rookie Fernando Mendoza on the roster. Mendoza has taken his first snaps with the team and received early praise from staff members.
Report stated on Tuesday that Mendoza has impressed the staff with his work ethic, focus, and time working under center. Palmer added that the performance points to Cousins starting Week 1, though Mendoza's play could prompt further discussion among coaches.
“Everything that I have been told is that Fernando Mendoza has wowed this staff at every turn, and it's from the work ethic to the focus to being pretty much all ball all the time to working under center.”
Mendoza told Sports Illustrated reporter Gilberto Manzano that he would rather be practicing than conducting interviews.
The Raiders finished the 2025 season with a 3-14 record.
Both quarterbacks have expressed support for the team's goal of improving in 2026.
