Fernando Mendoza Balances NFL Responsibilities with Ambitions for Raiders

Rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza prioritizes his preparation for the Las Vegas Raiders as his debut NFL training camp approaches. Despite opportunities for recognition, Mendoza chose to focus on practice sessions with the Raiders.

Last month, Mendoza declined an invitation to the White House. His Indiana teammates visited President Donald Trump to celebrate their national championship win. Mendoza preferred to remain with the Raiders.

Recently, the league required Mendoza to attend the NFL Players Association Rookie Premier event, which pulled him away from his training. He expressed his reluctance about this obligation, stating, “I’d rather be practicing right now. I was really upset about actually having to miss practice for this,” Mendoza told Gilbert Manzano of SI.com.

Mendoza acknowledged the event’s significance, sharing, “Although it’s great, it’s still been a great moment to where it was mandatory I be here. I’m not going to feel sorry for myself and feel wishy-washy.”

Despite his initial frustration, Mendoza found value in the experience. He smiled through the event, seeking to learn and connect with other rookies. “Live and learn all the [NFLPA] benefits, make all the connections with different mentors here, let me make sure I can maximize my time to be able to create a positive impact and learn about my situation and surroundings,” he explained.

Mendoza, the top choice in the 2026 draft, is expected to start the season as a backup to Kirk Cousins. If Cousins falters or the Raiders quickly fall out of playoff contention, Mendoza might see playing time this season. Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon suggested Mendoza could start by midseason. Moon commented, “I think [Mendoza will] be in there probably by the halfway point, [maybe] a little bit after. I think it’s good for him right off the bat [to] be behind somebody, he doesn’t have to be put out there to the wolves right away until he’s ready, and Kirk can win some football games for them and keep them competitive in games until Fernando is ready.”