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Fernando Mendoza dodges questions about NIL earnings on podcast

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 6:41 PM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Fernando Mendoza dodges questions about NIL earnings on podcast
Summary

Fernando Mendoza, the Raiders rookie quarterback, discussed NIL earnings during a recent podcast appearance with teammate Kirk Cousins. During the episode of 'Bussin’ with the Boys,' Mendoza was encouraged to reveal his NIL income but opted to say, 'I plead the fifth.' He noted that rookies often share their NIL amounts as part of bonding rituals, although he declined to confirm a report suggesting his earnings totaled $2.6 million. Mendoza, the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, is looking to improve after a disappointing preseason debut against the Cardinals on August 13.

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By the Numbers
  • •Mendoza appeared on 'Bussin’ with the Boys' podcast on August 18.
  • •He was asked by Kirk Cousins to disclose his NIL earnings.
  • •Mendoza chose not to reveal specific numbers during the podcast.
  • •He expressed a desire to improve following his first preseason game.
  • •Mendoza reported feeling he let his teammates down after the game.
Latest Updates
  • 6:41 PMYahoo Sports — Fernando Mendoza Gets Pressured by Raiders Teammate Kirk Cousins to Reveal How Much He Made in NIL Deals
What they're saying
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Mendoza said rookies are asked to share how much they made from NIL earnings with their teammates

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