May 27, 2026, 10:30 AM CUT
Really Upset: Fernando Mendoza Miserable Over Raiders' Latest Decision
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza answers questions from the media during the NFL, American Football Herren, USA Scouting Combine on February 27, 2026 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire NFL: FEB 27 Scouting Combine EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon2602270203
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza answers questions from the media during the NFL, American Football Herren, USA Scouting Combine on February 27, 2026 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire NFL: FEB 27 Scouting Combine EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon2602270203
The Las Vegas Raiders' rookie quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, is ready to make his impact in the upcoming season by fully dedicating himself to the offseason practice session.
Fernando Mendoza expressed his frustration with being off the field because of the NFLPA rookie premiere that took place from May 14–16, in Los Angeles, California.
“I’m going to be completely honest with you — I’d rather be practicing right now, and I was really upset about actually having to miss practice for this,” Mendoza told Gilberto Manzano of Sports Illustrated.
January 19, 2026: Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza 15 during NCAA, College League, USA football game action between the Miami Hurricanes and the Indiana Hoosiers at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. /CSM. Miami Gardens United States of America - ZUMAc04_ 20260119_zma_c04_372 Copyright: xJohnxMersitsx
January 19, 2026: Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza 15 during NCAA, College League, USA football game action between the Miami Hurricanes and the Indiana Hoosiers at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. /CSM. Miami Gardens United States of America - ZUMAc04_ 20260119_zma_c04_372 Copyright: xJohnxMersitsx
The passionate mindset showed earlier when he skipped the opportunity to visit the White House to meet President Donald Trump with his Indiana teammates at the start of May so he could stay at the facility and continue working out.
Still, the Raiders' QB also explained that he learned a few things.
“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,” Mendoza added. “I’m going to have a smile on my face and make the most of that present moment."
Even during OTAs, Mendoza had a simple start as he learned the Raiders’ offense.
Head coach Klint Kubiak said Mendoza has “not disappointed” and has worked very hard while staying fully focused on the field. And his hard work is already making him ahead of many rookies.
Mendoza Climbs NFL QB Rankings Before Taking a Snap
On the episode of Mina Kimes Show, ESPN analysts Mina Kimes and Ben Solak placed Fernando Mendoza at No. 16 among all starting quarterbacks in the league with belief in his long-term potential.
"He'd have been a top-five quarterback in any single draft. Ideal height, weight, size. He's got excellent arm talent," Solak said. “I'm extremely confident in the processor that I saw at Indiana. I'm also confident in the individual and the way that he's prepared and gone through the pre-draft process in anticipation of the offense he's going to play.”
Mendoza has set an early impression with his college years, recording over 8,000 passing yards with 71 touchdowns. In his time at Indiana, he finished last season with an 87.9 PFF grade, ranking 30th among 302 QBs.
Early rankings reflect projection more than production, but Mendoza’s placement suggests the Raiders may already have their long-term answer at quarterback.
Tell us what you think: will the new rookie quarterback be able to make his impact as per the expectation around him? Let us know in the comments!
Read more at the Kansas City Chiefs Community!
Written by
Shreya Mishra
Edited by
Shubhi Rathore