Las Vegas Raiders Face Quarterback Decision as No. 1 Pick Fernando Mendoza Joins Team

Fernando Mendoza was selected No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders after a Heisman‑winning season and a national championship at Indiana. He arrives in a quarterback room anchored by veteran Kirk Cousins, who, according to head coach Klint Kubiak, is slated to start while Mendoza learns as a backup.

Training‑camp reports and analysts note that Mendoza may already be outperforming Cousins in practice, prompting debate over the Raiders’ plan to keep him on the bench. NFL Insider Ian Rapoport said that if Mendoza continues to excel early, the team could be forced to start him sooner rather than later.

Minority owner Tom Brady is actively mentoring the rookie, stressing the importance of teamwork and leadership. Brady also highlighted his personal investment by unveiling a one‑of‑one autographed Mendoza trading card, calling the purchase a “win‑win” for the young quarterback’s career.