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Fernando Mendoza shines in NFL preseason debut for Raiders against Cardinals

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 6:14 AM

Last updated Aug 14, 2026

Fernando Mendoza shines in NFL preseason debut for Raiders against Cardinals

Summary

Fernando Mendoza made his NFL preseason debut with the Las Vegas Raiders in a 27-14 loss to the Arizona Cardinals at Allegiant Stadium. The former Indiana Hoosiers quarterback completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and one touchdown, showcasing his skills after being selected first overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. Former NFL player Breiden Fehoko compared Mendoza's throwing style to that of Patrick Mahomes, Tom Brady, and Joe Burrow, sparking varied reactions among fans. Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak confirmed that veteran Kirk Cousins remains the starting quarterback but acknowledged the excitement surrounding Mendoza after a successful college career.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Mendoza completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown.
•Raiders lost 27-14 to the Cardinals in the preseason matchup.
•Kirk Cousins started the game for the Raiders.
•Breiden Fehoko drew comparisons between Mendoza and top NFL quarterbacks.
•Mendoza was the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Latest Updates

6:14 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Shedeur Sanders Did The Same Thing in His Preseason Debut’ — Ex-Nose Tackle’s Wild Fernando Mendoza-Patrick Mahomes Comparison Wins No Takers

What they're saying

"
Former Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza made his NFL preseason debut in the Las Vegas Raiders’ 27-14 loss to the Arizona Cardinals at Allegiant Stadium. Veteran Kirk Cousins started the game for the Raiders before Mendoza made an impressive cameo, completing 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown.
— Yahoo Sports

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