Rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza has found an unexpected mentor during his first Las Vegas Raiders training camp. The 2026 NFL Draft's first overall pick revealed who has been helping him grow behind the scenes. 

During his July 30, 2026 press conference on Day 2 of Raiders training camp, Mendoza revealed that Maxx Crosby has become an unexpected mentor during his first NFL training camp. 

"He's a fantastic competitor. The intellect that he's been able to give me and the advice," Mendoza told reporters during the training camp's Day 2 presser. "Everyone has seen how much he's grown since his rookie year to now being the All-Pro [caliber] superstar that he is. The little bits of wisdom." 

During the Day 2 training camp interview on July 30, the rookie quarterback said Crosby's advice on leadership and competition has helped him grow as he begins his NFL career. 

In fact, the veteran DE's journey with the Raiders is one of the reasons Mendoza values his advice.

Now entering his eighth NFL season, Crosby ranks third in franchise history with 69.5 career sacks and serves as the captain of the team's defense. His rise from a rookie to an All-Pro-caliber player is something Mendoza said he looks up to. 

Mendoza also revealed how Crosby's advice has shaped his approach in training camp. 

"I understand that defensive end and quarterback are two different positions, but the mentality of attacking, and being a leader of the team, and growing within your career are the same," Mendoza said about Crosby. "So I really look up to him and any bits of advice that he's given me, I've taken to heart." 

Mendoza arrived in Las Vegas with high expectations after a standout season at Indiana. He became the first player in program history to win the Heisman Trophy and lead the Hoosiers to a national championship.

Hopefully, Crosby's influence will continue to help their No. 1 overall pick grow in the months ahead, as he starts his NFL career.

While the veteran DE's guidance has been an important part of Mendoza's early days with the Raiders, the rookie also spoke about his current role behind Kirk Cousins. 

Fernando Mendoza accepts his role behind Kirk Cousins

During the same July 30 training camp press conference, Mendoza spoke about his role in the Raiders' quarterback room, with the rookie saying his focus remains on helping the team win.

“I’m just trying to do my part and focus on the next rep and do everything that I can possibly can to prepare myself to be the best asset I can for my team and whatever decision is made at the end, that’s fantastic,” Mendoza said. “I’m all for it. I just want the team to win. That’s where I’m at.” 

Mendoza also said he is becoming more comfortable in the Raiders' offense with every practice. 

For now, Mendoza admitted he still has more to learn, especially when it comes to the playbook, but he remains focused on improving with every practice. 

Do you think Mendoza is taking the right approach early in his NFL career? Share your thoughts in the comments. 

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Written by

Divyanshi Raj

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit