Fernando Mendoza struggles in NFL debut as Texans intercept early pass
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 4:16 PM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026
Fernando Mendoza faced difficulties in his first NFL start on August 22, 2026, as the Las Vegas Raiders played the Houston Texans. Mendoza's night included a pick-six on the Raiders' first drive, resulting in an 80-yard return by Wade Woodaz and a quick 14-0 deficit. He completed eight of 15 passes for 86 yards and one interception. Despite Mendoza's struggles, the Raiders rallied back to a 22-20 victory with Aidan O’Connell leading the comeback in the second half. Mendoza acknowledged the need for growth and adjustment at the NFL level.
- •Mendoza throws a pick-six on his first NFL drive.
- •Raiders trail 20-3 at halftime before O’Connell's comeback.
- •Mendoza finishes with eight completions for 86 yards.
- •Head coach Klint Kubiak emphasizes learning opportunities for Mendoza.
- •Raiders secure a 22-20 win over the Texans.
- 4:16 PMYahoo Sports — Fernando Mendoza gets a harsh reality check after Texans hand him a humbling lesson
"Fernando Mendoza was given a harsh first start in the NFL. The rookie signal-caller’s night ended with zero touchdowns and one pick-six as the Las Vegas Raiders took on the Houston Texans.
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