Fernando Mendoza gains first-team reps with Raiders during joint practice
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 2:00 AM
Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Fernando Mendoza took a significant step towards becoming the Las Vegas Raiders' starting quarterback this week during joint practices with the Houston Texans. The rookie quarterback received extensive first-team reps, an opportunity noted by head coach Klint Kubiak as beneficial for Mendoza against a formidable defense. Earlier this summer, Mendoza impressed in his NFL debut against the Arizona Cardinals, completing 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and one touchdown. This experience is expected to help accelerate his adaptation to the NFL.
- •Mendoza participated in first-team reps during practice on August 18.
- •Klint Kubiak emphasized the need for Mendoza to face tough competition.
- •Mendoza performed well in his preseason debut vs. the Cardinals.
- •The Texans had the top-ranked defense in yardage allowed last season.
- 2:00 AMYahoo Sports — Fernando Mendoza takes big step towards being Raiders' starting quarterback
"Fernando Mendoza had an opportunity this week, and he took it.
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