How Fernando Mendoza reportedly impressed Raiders coaches throughout springtime workouts

At this point, it probably would be a little surprising if first-year Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak names 2026 No. 1 overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza the team's Week 1 starting quarterback over veteran Kirk Cousins.

That said, it sounds like Raiders coaches love what they have seen from Mendoza from the time he first began participating in team practices following the 2026 NFL Draft. 

Fernando Mendoza has proven to be a quick learner with Raiders

"Mendoza has impressed the coaches with his ability to make completions," ESPN's Ryan McFadden shared on Monday. "[Raiders quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan] said sometimes Mendoza's footwork might not be right, or maybe his progression didn't start in the correct spot, but he has kept his poise, not panicking while finding an open target. But coaches say the biggest thing is how quickly Mendoza learns from his mistakes." 

It's assumed that Raiders minority owner Tom Brady is among those who are in favor of Mendoza serving as a backup through at least a portion of the signal-caller's rookie season. Kubiak hinted that he is "counting" on Cousins to make starts for the club, beginning with Las Vegas' Week 1 home game versus the Miami Dolphins on Sept. 13.

That said, Mendoza has seemingly been as good as the Raiders expected him to be when they made him the draft's first choice on April 23. Part of that has involved Mendoza dealing with the pressure that comes with being an advertised franchise savior. 

Fernando Mendoza already showing "strong leadership qualities" of a long-term QB1

"Being the top pick and the future face of the franchise can be a heavy burden," McFadden explained. "But during the Raiders' offseason workout program, Mendoza impressed his teammates and coaches with how he has handled the added weight on his shoulders, while displaying strong leadership qualities and relentless drive to be the best."

Such comments indicate that Kubiak and Co. expect Mendoza to do whatever is asked of him if the rookie enters September as the Raiders' QB2. If nothing else, Mendoza likely realizes he'll eventually find himself firmly cemented atop the team's depth chart.