Las Vegas Raiders Welcome Fernando Mendoza
The Las Vegas Raiders have officially kicked off the Fernando Mendoza era, as he recently signed a contract valued at $57.27 million, fully guaranteed.
It was anticipated that Mendoza would ink a four-year deal with a possibility for a fifth year. This is standard for NFL rookies, particularly for the first overall pick in the 2026 draft. So, it was really just a matter of time.
The contract brings a fresh wave of optimism for the Raiders, a franchise that has met with struggles in recent years despite their decades-old motto of “commitment to excellence.”
Tom Brady had an encouraging message for the rookie: “Take your chances.”
“I’m thrilled to get this signed,” Mendoza expressed in a video released by the team. “Being part of the Silver & Black is something I can’t wait for. Thank you for the support, and let’s keep this going.”
As for what his debut will entail? Well, he’ll likely start as a rookie aiming to prove himself.
Mendoza won’t be handed the starting quarterback role right away—veteran Kirk Cousins currently holds that position. Cousins, a 14-year veteran, signed a one-year deal with the Raiders to serve as a bridge quarterback while Mendoza adapts to the NFL’s pace, learns the offense, and develops his professional skills.
Raiders management has stated the starting job won’t automatically go to Mendoza, emphasizing that they’re in no rush to throw him into the fray.
Nonetheless, there’s a chance Mendoza could impress. If he learns quickly, makes solid decisions, and shows leadership, he might just take the lead role.
Training camp will be crucial for Mendoza; if he demonstrates he’s a better option than Cousins, the starting spot could be his. That said, the team’s evaluation of Cousins will be ongoing, and if he’s performing well, the job is likely his to keep.
Fans are eager to see Mendoza in action at some point during 2026, but the Raiders have made it clear that if he doesn’t step in, it’s not necessarily a reflection of his readiness—it could simply be that Cousins is playing well.
All these expectations are in place before the regular season, preseason, or even training camp have started. Things can— and often do—change quickly.
What’s clear is that Mendoza represents the future.
He has Tom Brady as a resource, which could be invaluable.
The Raiders made significant offseason adjustments they feel will benefit their offensive line and defense. They even managed to keep star edge rusher Maxx Crosby after initially trading him to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Speaking of which, Crosby seems optimistic about the upcoming season. “It’s time,” he shared on social media earlier Thursday.
The Raiders believe they’re on the rise, as one NFL official described it. Of course, they face tough competition in the AFC West, which includes playoff contenders like the Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos, and Los Angeles Chargers.
However, if Mendoza lives up to expectations, it could pave the way for the team’s success in the years ahead.
It all begins this Thursday.
