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Kurt Benkert draws comparison between Fernando Mendoza and Philip Rivers

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 6:35 AM

Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Kurt Benkert draws comparison between Fernando Mendoza and Philip Rivers

Summary

Former NFL quarterback Kurt Benkert endorsed Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza after observing his performance in preseason games. Mendoza started the second preseason game against the Houston Texans, completing 8 of 15 passes for 86 yards but also threw an interception. His previous outing against the Arizona Cardinals was more impressive, where he went 10-of-16 for 97 yards and a touchdown. Despite rough patches, Benkert praised Mendoza's potential, providing a comparison to Philip Rivers. Kirk Cousins is expected to start for the Raiders this season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Benkert compared Mendoza to Philip Rivers after preseason games.
•Mendoza struggled with an interception against the Texans.
•He previously had a stronger performance against the Cardinals.
•Kirk Cousins will start as the Raiders' quarterback this season.
•Mendoza was the No. 1 overall pick in the draft.

Latest Updates

6:35 AMYahoo Sports — ‘[Fernando] Mendoza Has Some Philip Rivers in His Throwing Motion’ — Former Packers QB Delivers Big, Big Endorsement of Raiders Rookie

What they're saying

"
After seeing Fernando Mendoza in preseason action, one former NFL player has made a bold comparison between the Raiders quarterback and an NFL icon. The ex-Indiana star was not flawless in the Raiders’ first two preseason games, but he did enough to remind Kurt Benkert of Philip Rivers.
— Yahoo Sports

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