Welcome to the league, rookie.
Fernando Mendoza, the Las Vegas Raiders quarterback, experienced his first NFL game during a preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday. He reflected that this game felt significantly different and better compared to his prior matches.
“No matter how skilled you are in high school or college, the NFL operates on a different tier. I certainly felt that tonight, and there’s a lot I need to learn,” Mendoza shared.
At just 22, Mendoza has just concluded an impressive college season that saw him leading Indiana to its first-ever national championship. Yet, despite that success, venturing into the NFL brings an entirely new learning curve.
During the game, Mendoza completed 10 passes on 16 attempts, totaling 97 yards and throwing a touchdown across four drives. Notably, he became the first No. 1 draft pick to achieve a touchdown pass in his preseason debut since Baker Mayfield did in 2018.
While Mendoza showcased some promising moments, he also displayed the learning curve typical for a rookie adjusting to the NFL’s pace. His initial drive resulted in two incomplete passes, leading the Raiders to punt.
However, he bounced back quickly on his second drive and delivered a 6-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Jake Beck, leveling the game at 14. Though the Raiders ultimately fell to the Cardinals 27-14, Mendoza’s performance offered a glimmer of hope for the future.
Kirk Cousins had an impressive opener as well, completing 5 out of 6 passes for 50 yards, capped off with a 13-yard touchdown to tight end Michael Mayer. Cousins, who secured the starting quarterback position before training camp, is navigating a competitive environment, especially with the Raiders having chosen Mendoza as the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Mendoza is seen as the franchise’s future leader. When he will fully embrace that role remains to be seen.
