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Raiders evaluate Fernando Mendoza ahead of Week 1 season opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 26, 2026, 9:12 AM

Last updated Aug 26, 2026

Raiders evaluate Fernando Mendoza ahead of Week 1 season opener

Summary

The Las Vegas Raiders are preparing for the 2026 NFL season as they consider the role of Fernando Mendoza, their No. 1 overall draft pick. Head coach Klint Kubiak has stated that Mendoza has shown improvement during the preseason, but he still needs to develop further before taking the field. Despite signing veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins as the starter, there is speculation about when Mendoza may see action. Kubiak’s comments suggest the team is cautious about rushing the rookie, indicating he may sit for a portion of the season to refine his skills.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Mendoza was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
•Kirk Cousins has been named the starting quarterback.
•Kubiak praised Mendoza but noted areas needing improvement.
•Mendoza led Indiana to a national championship in college.
•Speculation exists on when Mendoza might debut in the NFL.

Latest Updates

9:12 AMYahoo Sports — Raiders Provide Telling Fernando Mendoza Update Before Week 1

What they're saying

"
When the Las Vegas Raiders selected former Indiana Hoosiers standout quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, many felt that he could be a day one starter.Despite spending the No. 1 pick on a long-term franchise quarterback, the Raiders quickly made it clear that they were not going […] The post Raiders Provide Telling Fernando Mendoza Update Before Week 1 appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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