At Indiana, Mendoza worked plenty at the shotgun formation, so he is focusing on taking reps under center. “I think it’s going to be that repetition under center, getting those quicker feet, and just you can always be faster and more efficient in your reads and decisiveness,” Mendoza said.

Mendoza has been highly praised by his work ethic and being a tape nerd. Listening to him proves that. He is eager to get better and he wants to do it fast. Mendoza is a winner, and he will do whatever it takes to get the results the Raiders want.

Mendoza isn’t the only one adjusting to play under center

The Raiders picked offensive lineman Trey Zuhn in the third-round, and he’s been snapping for Mendoza during the minicamp. Zuhn played for Texas A&M during his college days. While he’s not scheduled to be the starting center (that would be Tyler Linderbaum), it’s great for him to get some reps there as well.

“We didn’t do very much under center at A&M, either, so it’s been great getting those extra reps,” Zuhn said. It seems that, after years of cultural mess within the Raiders confines, now it’s time to get to work and get things right.

The Raiders have a mountain to climb ahead of them

Unfortunately for Mendoza and the Raiders, it won’t be easy to turn their fortunes around. The fact is that they compete in the AFC West, arguably the toughest division in the NFL.

The Raiders have to battle against the 2020s dynasty in the Chiefs, the AFC runner-ups in the Broncos, and a perennial contender like the Los Angeles Chargers. Hence, it’s a big task to turn things around in just one season. Still, that’s what the Raiders are aiming for.

In fact, it was Mendoza himself who, in an interview with the media, revealed what it means for him to work with his new head coach, and how he will be able to maximize all of his strengths in this new stage of his career.

“He won a Super Bowl last year so I saw a lot of him… When I was drafted and got here, I was able to get the playbook. However, going now to be in the facility and have access to the film and see the application, see Kirk Cousins do it in Minnesota, see Sam Darnold do it last year in Seattle… how it’s supposed to be executed when it’s done at a high level, has really been beneficial for my development,” he said about making strides learning Kubiak’s system via Nick Walters on X.

“Coming from day 1, just seeing it on paper, to day 2, last night with coaches, really studying… that’s how their footwork and eyes looked, so can we put it on the field today, and I think we did.”

Kubiak knows how to develop quarterbacks

Klint Kubiak has proven to be a high-level offensive architect, capable of maximizing quarterback production in diverse systems. In 2021, as the Vikings’ offensive coordinator, he guided Kirk Cousins to one of his most efficient campaigns, where the veteran threw for 4,221 yards, 33 touchdowns, and only 7 interceptions while earning a Pro Bowl selection.

Kubiak took his expertise to Seattle for the 2025 season, where he revolutionized Sam Darnold’s career. Under Kubiak’s West Coast scheme, Darnold delivered an elite regular season with 4,048 passing yards and 25 touchdowns, culminating in a Super Bowl LX victory.

This partnership transformed Darnold from a bridge starter into a championship-caliber quarterback, leading the Seahawks to a franchise-record 14 regular-season wins and their second NFL title.

The challenge of developing Mendoza

After being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Fernando Mendoza joins the Las Vegas Raiders to lead a new era under head coach Klint Kubiak. During his 2025 Heisman-winning campaign at Indiana, he showcased elite pros, including a 72.1% completion rate, 41 touchdowns, and world-class ball placement, particularly on back-shoulder throws and intermediate routes.

His football IQ and ability to process defenses post-snap are seen as his “superpowers.” However, Kubiak must address certain cons from Mendoza’s college tape, such as his tendency to hold onto the ball too long, leading to a high pressure-to-sack rate of 18.9%, and a deep ball that sometimes lacks the strength to hit receivers in stride.

By implementing the quick-release concepts and play-action schemes that Kubiak mastered in San Francisco and Seattle, the Raiders hope to maximize Mendoza’s pinpoint accuracy while shielding him from the pocket instability that occasionally hindered him in college.

When the Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza at No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, the fanbase was electrified. Optimism reached new heights at the prospect of a seven-time Super Bowl champion guiding the rookie toward professional success.

While Tom Brady is arguably the greatest quarterback in NFL history, general manager John Spytek has clarified the chain of command. Spytek detailed that he will primarily let head coach Klint Kubiak and the coaching staff guide Mendoza’s day-to-day development.

“I don’t think it’s going to be hard,” Spytek said. “We both welcome Tom’s insight and his input. But at the same time, I would say Tom has empowered us to run the day-to-day of the Raiders the way that we see fit. And obviously with the right vision and process in place, we’re going to be a very process-driven organization right now. And I think that wouldn’t surprise anybody with the way that Tom has operated throughout his career.”

If things go wrong, Tom Brady could always step in

Klint Kubiak is in his first year as head coach following a brilliant stint with the Seattle Seahawks, where he won Super Bowl LX. He now inherits a generational prospect in Fernando Mendoza, and the expectations for the Indiana star are already sky-high.

According to Spytek, Brady—who personally welcomed Mendoza after his selection—will allow Kubiak to develop the signal-caller, respecting the boundaries of the coaching staff. Nevertheless, there is a clear strategic reason why the Raiders brought Brady into the ownership group.

If the transition proves difficult, the Raiders will undoubtedly rely on Brady’s unprecedented expertise to assist both Kubiak and Mendoza. Though he is not a coach, his high-level advice could be the catalyst the club needs to finally secure the franchise quarterback fans have craved for decades.

The Raiders have another experienced QB to help Mendoza

Earlier this offseason, the Raiders signed Kirk Cousins. While he may not boast the trophy case of Tom Brady, his extensive veteran experience will be invaluable to Mendoza’s growth.

The Raiders are prepared for a competitive summer between Mendoza and Cousins. However, given his significant college experience and perceived NFL-readiness, the rookie appears to have the inside track to start in Week 1.

The first three rounds passed, and no team called McCoy’s name. McCoy didn’t play in 2025 due to a knee injury, but still was touted as one of the best corners in the 2026 NFL Draft. He was picked by the Raiders with the first pick of the fourth round.

However, reports say the knee injury is worse than expected. Despite having a great pro day showing in March, reports state that McCoy had a bone plug used to repair cartilage in the knee. This has caused long-term concerns on McCoy’s career. While he is healthy as of now, there’s a chance that McCoy needs a second surgery, and that prevented teams from calling his name earlier in the 2026 NFL Draft.

McCoy’s talent is supreme for a fourth-rounder

McCoy was turned into a classic ‘boom-or-bust‘ talent in the sense that, if he stays healthy, he could be one of the best young corners in the league, but if not, it’s not a great sight for the team. However, in the fourth round, he was a risk worth taking, and the Raiders saw that.

In the fourth round, he goes from ‘boom-or-bust’ to ‘sleeper pick‘. If he works out, the Raiders look like geniuses and they get their CB1. If McCoy doesn’t work out, it’s a fourth-rounder that was worth the gamble, not a top pick gone to waste.

Tom Brady could be a great mentor for McCoy

How can a former quarterback be a mentor for McCoy, who is a corner? Well, the thing is Tom Brady knows a thing or two in overcoming the odds. A 199th pick turned into the best and greatest football player of all time.

Hence, Tom Brady could mentor McCoy in the mental aspect of the game, and motivate him to reach new heights. Brady is more than just a co-owner. He is the one most players look up to, so his role is more than just ownership.

Tom Brady, through his X account, made it clear that this is only the beginning of a very demanding path. “Congratulations to all the rookies who are joining the NFL this weekend. I hope you can appreciate this special moment… you’ve earned it through hard work, discipline, and determination. You’ve made your family proud, along with everyone else on your journey that has supported you.

But this is just the beginning. When you wake up tomorrow morning, just know that your career will be defined by what happens going forward. You’ll need to take everything you do to the next level in order to compete with the world’s best. Welcome to Las Vegas Fernando Mendoza. Time to get to work.”

The link between Mendoza and Brady

The relationship between old school and the greatest of all time with the new generation is more alive than ever after Fernando Mendoza revealed that he would have Brady as a mentor if he were selected by the Raiders.

During an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, Mendoza shared details about his initial connection with Brady and what the legendary quarterback and minority owner of the team told him.

“He gave me the message that he’s going to push me, and he’s not going to be all lovey dovey, and that, if the Raiders draft me, he’s going to be a mentor and wants to pour into whatever QB the Raiders have.”

Having that type of mentorship creates excitement that we could be witnessing the rise of the next big NFL star, one who aims to make history in the league and not disappoint Tom Brady.

Along with Cousins, the Raiders also have Aidan O’Connell and Fernando Mendoza on the depth chart, a player expected to play a key role in helping the offense reach its goals in 2026. The team is looking to bounce back from last season’s 3-14 record, their worst mark since 2006.

The draft also gave the Raiders a valuable opportunity heading into 2026 with Mendoza, especially with Klint Kubiak stepping in as head coach. It marks his first time in that role after previously working as an offensive coordinator, bringing a system that could reshape the team’s identity.

A stronger quarterback depth chart for 2026

With Cousins, O’Connell and Mendoza leading the quarterback room, and a head coach who understands offensive systems and quarterback play from his experience as a passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach, the Raiders are expected to be more aggressive offensively in 2026.

Quarterbacks:

• Kirk Cousins
• Aidan O’Connell
• Fernando Mendoza

Cousins’ veteran presence could be one of the key factors in getting the offense off to a strong start early in the season. He has a proven ability to push the ball downfield and work with fast wide receivers. While he didn’t replicate his peak success with the Atlanta Falcons compared to his time with the Minnesota Vikings, this new chapter in Las Vegas could offer a different outcome.

“It starts with the coaching staff. I was really excited about being able to work with coaches I worked with before, in Klint Kubiak, Rick Dennison, (and) Andrew Janocko,” Cousins said on April 7 during his introductory press conference. “I had some of my best years playing with them, and coaching is a big deal in this league. So, getting around them excited me. And I think it’s a team that has a lot of young talent and that they’re building something special, and I want to be a part of that.”

During an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, Mendoza shared insight into his early connection with Brady and what the legendary quarterback and minority owner of the team told him about a potential future in Las Vegas.

“He gave me the message that he’s going to push me, and he’s not going to be all lovey-dovey, and that, if the Raiders draft me, he’s going to be a mentor and wants to pour into whatever QB the Raiders have.”

Tom Brady’s message for Fernando Mendoza

Tom Brady’s message reflects a broader shift within the Las Vegas Raiders. After a disappointing stretch under Pete Carroll and quarterback Geno Smith, Brady had already signaled a more active role in football decisions.

Now, with Klint Kubiak leading a new coaching era, the Raiders appear ready to build around a young quarterback with elite upside. In the QB room, it will be a very interesting scenario with a veteran like Kirk Cousins also mentoring Mendoza and leading the transition.

Will Raiders pick QB Fernando Mendoza in 2026 NFL Draft?

The Raiders are ready to choose Fernando Mendoza. The context makes the moment even more significant. Las Vegas endured a controversial offseason, highlighted by the failed trade attempt involving Maxx Crosby and the Baltimore Ravens, raising questions about the team’s long-term direction.

Landing Mendoza could change that narrative entirely. Fresh off a national championship run with Indiana, he represents not only stability at quarterback but also a potential cornerstone for years to come.

If his development aligns with expectations, and with Brady’s mentorship in place, the Raiders could quickly re-enter contention in a loaded AFC West alongside the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, and Denver Broncos. Over time, Mendoza may even position the franchise to pursue the ultimate goal: returning to Super Bowl contention.

Bowers spoke with Sam Warren of The Athletic and said it seems like Cousins has been with the Raiders “for years.” He also praised Cousins’ leadership and experience. “It’s definitely helpful to have that presence,” Bowers said. The Raiders as a whole have backed up Kirk Cousins since his arrival.

Cousins and new Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak are familiar with each other. They worked together for three years (2019-2021) where Kubiak was Cousins’ WB coach and offensive coordinator. Cousins went to two Pro Bowls during that span.

Having Bowers happy is key for the Raiders

Brock Bowers has just two seasons under his belt but he is an integral part of the Raiders. His talent is other-worldly and despite his team not being successful, he has established himself as one of the best tight ends in the NFL.

Bowers has 1,874 yards in two seasons, alongside seven touchdowns. And, to make it more impressing, he achieved so while missing five games last year. He has earned Pro Bowl honors in both seasons.

The Raiders have an exciting young core

Mendoza is 99.9% guaranteed being a Raider. Hence, the skill positions are nice and young for the team. Mendoza at QB, backed up by Bowers at tight end and running back Ashton Jeanty in his second year make this a promising unit.

They also need to bring a new wideout. It wouldn’t surprise to see them get a good wide receiver at pick number 36 in the 2026 NFL Draft. They still have young wideouts like Dont’e Thornton Jr. and Jack Bech. They also brought in Jalen Nailor. Those are wideouts with potential, but they aren’t established superstars.

When the Raiders confirmed Cousins was joining the team, many wondered what his specific role would be. With Las Vegas widely expected to select Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the veteran could potentially begin the season as QB2.

While Mendoza is not yet on the roster, his selection feels inevitable. Nevertheless, the Raiders believe Cousins will provide invaluable leadership and stability, even if he doesn’t ultimately serve as the long-term starter.

“There’s an understanding of Klint’s offense that I think will help Aidan [O’Connell] and any other quarterbacks that join the group,” general manager John Spytek. “He’s won, he’s hard working, he’s detailed, he’s smart, he’s been a great teammate places he’s been. … Just anytime you have a veteran quarterback in a room that’s played at a high level that you believe can still play well and play at a high level, I think that helps everybody — especially the coaching staff will sleep a little better at night.”

A fierce QB competition

Kirk Cousins is well aware that his job as QB1 is not guaranteed, even suggesting that the battle for the starting job against Fernando Mendoza has already begun. While the veteran is ready for the challenge, he also understands his role as a mentor to the former Indiana standout.

While Cousins could end up as the backup, he remains a fierce competitor. During his time with the Falcons, Atlanta drafted Michael Penix Jr., yet Cousins secured the starting role for the beginning of that campaign.

The Raiders may follow a similar blueprint, using Cousins to provide Mendoza with the time and space needed to adapt to the NFL. This strategy would ensure a smoother transition as Mendoza develops into the franchise legend the team envisions.

Can the Raiders pass on Fernando Mendoza?

It would be a shock to the entire league if the Raiders passed on Mendoza at No. 1 overall. The team is desperate for a quarterback to lead them back to success, and developing the reigning Heisman winner is seen as the clearest path forward.

In recent days, the Raiders confirmed that several teams have inquired about trading for the top pick. However, Las Vegas remains committed to holding the selection and ushering in the Mendoza era.

A compelling narrative is unfolding in Las Vegas. When Cousins signed with the Raiders earlier this month, many questioned whether the team would still target Mendoza with the top pick. However, the organization’s plan has become clear: they intend to foster a competitive environment between the seasoned veteran and the rookie phenom.

Upon his arrival, Cousins thanked the Raiders organization for their belief in him, as he is excited to wear their uniform. He has also openly acknowledged that a competition with Mendoza is on the horizon, stating that “the best player needs to play” and expressing his excitement to lead and mentor the next generation of talent.

“I honestly don’t want to start unless I’m the best option, and I told Klint that,” Cousins said on Good Morning Football. “The best player should play. As long as that’s the case, I have no qualms about however it plays out. I do think Fernando is going to be a great addition to our team. I think he’s going to have a great future in our league. I have no problem being a voice in the room to help him to the degree I can.

“He’s going to have great support around him with the coaching staff, but to be able to watch a veteran quarterback go through his habits and routines and process, that can be a great asset for him. He was here yesterday on his draft day visit. We were able to watch film together. I think he’ll be a great addition to the room.”

Could the Raiders pass on Fernando Mendoza?

Barring an extraordinary turn of events, it is highly unlikely the Raiders will pass on Mendoza. The franchise is desperate for a long-term solution at quarterback, and the former Indiana standout—who recently led the Hoosiers to a national championship—is widely viewed as the “missing piece” for the Silver and Black.

Holding the No. 1 overall pick gives Las Vegas total control over the draft board. While other quarterback-needy teams are undoubtedly interested in a prospect of Mendoza’s caliber, the Raiders are firmly in the driver’s seat to secure his services on April 23.

While some analysts have suggested that the Raiders could trade down to acquire a massive “haul” of picks—potentially targeting Alabama’s Ty Simpson later in the first round—the consensus among league insiders is that they will stay put.

The Raiders hold all the leverage; they can choose to draft Mendoza and pair him with Cousins, ensuring they have both a “Week 1 ready” veteran and a superstar prospect to lead the franchise into the future.

“Best jerseys in pro sports I think,” Cousins revealed via the team’s website. “I remember being in warm-ups once playing the Raiders and our head coach looked at me and said, ‘Those have to be the best jerseys that they are in pro sports.’ And I said, ‘You know what Coach, I have to agree. Those are really sharp.’”

The black and silver is undoubtedly one of the most understated and iconic uniforms in the NFL. Cousins can now enjoy it during an important stage of his career.

Cousins vs Raiders

Throughout his career, Kirk Cousins has maintained a perfect record against the Raiders, securing wins with three different franchises. He first dismantled Oakland in 2017 while leading Washington, followed by a dominant blowout victory with the Vikings two seasons later.

His most recent encounter came in late 2024 with the Falcons; however, that Monday night win in Las Vegas proved bittersweet. Despite the victory, Atlanta opted for a quarterback change the following morning, elevating Michael Penix Jr. and effectively ending Cousins’ season.

Paving the way for Mendoza

Despite being the heavy favorite to go first overall to the Las Vegas Raiders, Fernando Mendoza won’t attend the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. The former Indiana quarterback and Heisman winner has decided to stay in Miami to celebrate the milestone privately with his family, marking a significant moment for the franchise as they prepare to officially name him their new cornerstone.

The main question for Kubiak now lies in the strategy for the upcoming season. Will Mendoza be his QB1 from Week 1 and take Cousins as his mentor? Or, on the contrary, will he rely on the veteran to lead the team through what’s ahead?