Las Vegas Raiders bolster roster and staff as rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza receives praise and new recruiting aid

Veteran linebacker Nakobe Dean told NFL Network’s The Insiders that rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza brings a “lot of aura” and “positive, infectious energy,” describing him as authentic, always smiling and ready to lead the Las Vegas Raiders. Dean said the coaching staff and teammates are prepared to rally behind Mendoza as the team looks toward a new era.

Raiders general manager John Spytek announced the hiring of Jourdan Blake, former Notre Dame director of recruiting logistics, as a player‑personnel assistant. Blake, who previously worked with Deion Sanders at Colorado and held recruiting roles at SMU and TCU after playing cornerback at Baylor and SMU, will add college‑scouting expertise to the Raiders’ front office as Spytek continues to build a young, talent‑focused staff.

Both moves reflect the Raiders’ ongoing effort to reshape the roster and its management structure after a disappointing season.