Former Raiders GM Mike Mayock slightly compares Fernando Mendoza to a potential Hall of Famer

TL;DR

The Las Vegas Raiders are poised to acquire quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who has been compared to potential Hall of Famer Matt Ryan by former GM Mike Mayock. Mendoza possesses elite traits and excels in high-pressure situations.

Key points

Las Vegas Raiders are acquiring quarterback Fernando Mendoza
Mendoza is compared to Hall of Famer Matt Ryan by Mike Mayock
He has elite traits and performs well under pressure
Mendoza excelled in the National Championship game
Kirk Cousins may start over Mendoza in Week 1

Mentioned in this story

Mike MayockKirk CousinsMatt Ryan

Fernando MendozaLas Vegas Raiders

The Las Vegas Raiders are set to finally get their franchise quarterback in Fernando Mendoza. Vegas hasn’t had that in quite some time. Mendoza can be that and some, as he has all of the traits to be an elite quarterback in the NFL. Don't let the Raiders' decision to potentially start Kirk Cousins in […]

Don't let the Raiders' decision to potentially start Kirk Cousins in Week 1 sway the way you feel about the rookie QB. He is not the greatest QB prospect we have ever seen, and not really near the top. But there’s not much reason to say he can’t become one of the best in the league in the next few years. In fact, a former Raiders GM is already comparing Mendoza to a quarterback who could find his way to the Hall of Fame.

"(He has) Got a good arm, can drive it back-shoulder, at a high level, accurate at all three levels," former Raiders GM Mike Mayock said. "This is the key to me. He’s at his best when his best is necessary. I call it a quarterback nervous system. When I’m watching quarterback tape and when I get done three or four or five full games, and I get to the situations where it’s like third down, red zone, goal line, fourth quarter, you want to see what that nervous system looks like, especially in big games…

"What he did in that Penn State game was off the charts with a throw to Omar Cooper in the end zone to win the football game. The numbers aren’t overwhelming; they don’t throw it as much as other teams. But he was at his best in the fourth quarter of the National Championship game. The more I watched him, the more I liked him, respected him, and the more he reminded me of a young Matt Ryan. He’s a baby-faced assassin with great intangibles."

Ryan was not the most talented quarterback in the NFL in any given year. However, he had everything you need intangibly to become an NFL MVP. Of course, Ryan also had some fantastic weapons along the way. Regardless, his total body of work says he could become a Hall of Famer. That is no light comparison for Mendoza. If the rookie QB ends up being what Ryan was, you can say that’s a successful career.

Former Raiders GM Mike Mayock knows how to scout talent

Q&A

What qualities make Fernando Mendoza a potential franchise quarterback for the Raiders?

Fernando Mendoza is noted for his strong arm, accuracy at all levels, and ability to perform under pressure, especially in critical game situations.

How does Mike Mayock compare Fernando Mendoza to Matt Ryan?

Mike Mayock sees similarities between Mendoza and a young Matt Ryan, highlighting Mendoza's poise and performance in crucial moments, particularly in high-stakes games.

What was Mendoza's performance like in the National Championship game?

In the National Championship game, Mendoza showcased his skills by making key plays, including a game-winning throw to Omar Cooper in the end zone.

Why might the Raiders consider starting Kirk Cousins over Fernando Mendoza?

The Raiders may consider starting Kirk Cousins due to his experience, despite Mendoza being viewed as a promising rookie with franchise potential.