Fernando Mendoza shows promise despite tough preseason performance for Raiders
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 1:19 PM
Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Fernando Mendoza, the Las Vegas Raiders' top draft pick, is navigating his first NFL preseason with mixed results. In his second game, Mendoza completed 8 of 15 passes for 86 yards and threw an interception. The Raiders are reportedly allowing him to develop under veteran Kirk Cousins. Mendoza's media presence has been praised, demonstrating maturity as he interacts with commentators Joe Buck and Troy Aikman during broadcasts. The Raiders have faith in Mendoza's long-term potential, though questions remain about his readiness to challenge for the starting quarterback position right now.
- •Mendoza is the first overall pick in the latest NFL Draft.
- •He had a challenging performance in the second preseason game.
- •The Raiders plan for Mendoza to learn from Kirk Cousins.
- •Mendoza's poise and maturity have been highlighted during interviews.
- •Aidan O’Connell outperformed Mendoza in the preseason matchup.
- 1:19 PMYahoo Sports — Fernando Mendoza already knows exactly what to say
"Fernando Mendoza just started his NFL career. But he is a finished on-camera product.
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