Fernando Mendoza joins Las Vegas Raiders as top draft pick

Fernando Mendoza, a Cuban-American quarterback selected first overall in the recent NFL draft, is set to join the Las Vegas Raiders. Following a collegiate career at Indiana where he won the Heisman Trophy and a national championship, Mendoza will begin the season as a backup behind veteran Kirk Cousins.

The Raiders are scheduled to open their season against the Miami Dolphins on September 13 at Allegiant Stadium. Mendoza’s arrival comes as the franchise attempts to rebuild following a 3-14 record.

Mendoza is part of a growing presence of Latin American talent in the NFL, joining established players such as Fred Warner (Mexican and Panamanian descent), Nik Bonitto and Chris Olave (Cuban descent), and Christian González (Colombian descent).