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Fernando Mendoza news
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The gist
Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza impressed in preseason debut, going 10-of-16 for 97 yards and a TD. He's pushing veteran Kirk Cousins for the starting QB job.
Background
Fernando Mendoza, the 2026 NFL draft's No. 1 pick, is competing with veteran Kirk Cousins for the Raiders' starting quarterback job. In his preseason debut against the Cardinals, he showed promise, and he has been getting first-team reps in practice, though Cousins remains the favorite for Week One.
How it unfolded
- Aug 14, 2026Mendoza makes his preseason debut against the Cardinals, completing 10-of-16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown in a 27-14 loss.
- Aug 15, 2026Coach Klint Kubiak confirms Cousins remains the starter, but Mendoza's performance draws praise.
- Aug 18, 2026Mendoza gets first-team reps at joint practice with Texans and impresses, with Cousins praising his preparation.
- Aug 20, 2026Analysis suggests Raiders should consider starting Mendoza right away, as he continues to develop.
Who’s saying what
- Coach
- Kubiak says Cousins is the favorite to start, but Mendoza is getting opportunities to show what he can do.
- Analysts
- Some analysts argue Mendoza's upside warrants starting him immediately, despite Cousins' consistency.
- Veteran
- Cousins acknowledges Mendoza's talent and says he's picking up the system quickly.