Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza feels good coming out of Rookie Minicamp

TL;DR

Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza feels optimistic after rookie minicamp, showing promise in learning the West Coast offense. His performance may lead to a starting position by Week 1.

Key points

Fernando Mendoza participated in rookie minicamp with the Raiders
He feels good about his performance and learning the offense
Mendoza faces challenges adapting to the NFL as a rookie quarterback

Mentioned in this story

Klint Kubiak

Las Vegas RaidersFernando Mendoza

May 2, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) runs through a drill during a Rookie Minicamp at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images | Candice Ward-Imagn Images The Las Vegas Raiders had their second practice of rookie minicamp on Saturday. It was open to the media and gave fans their first glimpse of new quarterback Fernando Mendoza in action. His growth will be the talk of the offseason and training camp, with a chance he’s ready to start Week 1. Of course, there is a learning curve for Mendoza being a rookie in the NFL. He has to get used to playing under center and learning the West Coast offense run by head coach Klint Kubiak. The former Heisman Trophy winner is ready for the challenge and feels good coming off the rookie minicamp.

“I feel really good coming out of this rookie minicamp with the entire like day one and day two of the system, imprinting it, be able to run it rather than really having the application and the schematic on paper part. I feel really good coming out of this rookie minicamp, but 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 is known for his intelligence and ability to process information quickly. If he can develop in this offense and be ahead of schedule, Raider Nation might see him in the starting lineup sooner than expected. **In other Raiders links**:

**Raiders cut starting defensive end from past 2 seasons**: Charles Snowden was waived on Saturday after starting the last 2 seasons for the Silver and Black.

Q&A

What did Fernando Mendoza say about his performance at rookie minicamp?

Fernando Mendoza expressed that he feels good coming out of rookie minicamp, emphasizing his progress in learning the system and the importance of repetition.

What challenges does Fernando Mendoza face as a rookie quarterback?

As a rookie, Mendoza must adapt to playing under center and mastering the West Coast offense implemented by head coach Klint Kubiak.

Is there a chance Fernando Mendoza will start for the Raiders in Week 1?

Yes, if Mendoza continues to develop quickly in the offense, he may be ready to start in Week 1.