Ryan Fitzpatrick advocates for Fernando Mendoza as Raiders starting quarterback

Former NFL quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick publicly endorsed Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza as the team's starting quarterback. Fitzpatrick based his assessment on Mendoza's preseason performances, which he described as compelling enough to warrant an immediate promotion to the starting role. This position contrasts with prevailing internal and external assessments, which suggest that the rookie requires further development before taking over the position. Kirk Cousins remains the primary option for the starting role according to those same consensus reports. Fitzpatrick expressed his support for the rookie’s immediate elevation to the starting lineup despite the broader sentiment that the team should proceed with their veteran incumbent.

• 2:52 AMYahoo Sports — Former NFL QB 'All in' on Raiders Fernando Mendoza being ready right now