Fantasy Rookie Profile: Fernando Mendoza in redraft leagues

We are diving into some fantasy football content this offseason as we look to bring in all sorts of football fans to Vikings Wire. It is arguably the most popular game that is around football, so not dipping our toes into the proverbial pool wouldn't make sense.

What we will start with is some rookie profiles, and where they fit into the landscape of the team they were drafted by. First up, Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

Mendoza is just the fourth player in league history to be the first overall pick in the NFL Draft after winning a National Championship and a Heisman Trophy. He now heads to Las Vegas, where he hopes to be able to bring them new life after treading water for years. But where do things sit in terms of his fantasy potential? Let's dive into that.

Depth Chart Situation

• Kirk Cousins
• Fernando Mendoza
• Aidan O'Connell

Skill Players Around Him

• Ashron Jeanty, RB
• Jalen Nailor, WR
• Tre Tucker, WR
• Jack Bech, WR
• Brock Bowers, TE

2026 Stat Projections

Stat projections are done by ESPN's Mike Clay

• 3,005 Passing Yards
• 15 Passing Touchdowns
• 211 Rushing Yards
• 2 Rushing Touchdowns
• 186 Fantasy Points

Reason to Believe in Fernando Mendoza in 2026: Offensive Line

The Raiders made it a point this offseason to revamp their offensive line, led by the signing of center Tyler Linderbaum. Returning to protect his blindside is Kolton Miller, who has become a franchise-building block in Las Vegas. All of this leads to the belief that Mendoza should be able to enjoy more protection under center than most Raiders quarterbacks in previous years. Not only will that help Mendoza, but it will also help Ashton Jeanty, who showed promise as a rookie in 2025. Mendoza, benefiting from a reliable run game, also helps matters.

2026 Outlook