Las Vegas Raiders coach discusses quarterback reps, praises rookie Fernando Mendoza
Quarterback Reps and Performance
Las Vegas Raiders coach Klint Kubiak has indicated that all three quarterbacks, including rookie Fernando Mendoza, deserve first-team repetitions in training camp. This statement comes after Mendoza’s performance in the team’s preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals, where he completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown to Jack Bech. Mendoza played four series in the 27-14 loss.
Despite his solid debut, Mendoza was critical of his own performance, choosing to review game video immediately after the game. Coach Kubiak noted that technology allows all players to evaluate their performances promptly, and he was not concerned about information overload for young quarterbacks. Kubiak emphasized that quarterbacks are expected to handle and process a significant amount of information, suggesting that challenging them mentally helps determine their capacity.
Kirk Cousins currently holds the position of the No. 1 quarterback, a role Kubiak described as “his job to lose.” Cousins demonstrated consistent play in practice, which extended to the game against Arizona. He played the opening drive, completing 5 of 6 passes for 50 yards and a touchdown to Michael Mayer. While Cousins remains the starter, Kubiak did not dismiss the possibility of giving Mendoza more first-team snaps during training camp. Mendoza has had only one practice where he led the starting offense, which occurred when Cousins and defensive end Maxx Crosby were briefly absent from team drills due to an altercation.
The Raiders are scheduled to practice against the Texans in Houston on Tuesday, followed by a game against them two nights later. The team will conclude its preseason schedule on August 27 at home against San Francisco.
Mendoza’s Work Ethic and Mentorship
Mendoza’s dedication to studying film after his debut highlights his diligent approach since being drafted. Rookie wide receiver Malik Benson observed Mendoza’s commitment, noting that he is often in the facility studying late into the night. This work ethic, Benson suggested, contributes to Mendoza’s on-field performance.
The relationship between Mendoza and Cousins has been described as supportive rather than competitive. Cousins expressed his willingness to offer advice if Mendoza seeks it, but he also respects Mendoza’s intelligence and maturity. Cousins stated that he does not want to hinder Mendoza’s development, believing the rookie has a good understanding of the game. He added that Mendoza is a “great question asker,” indicating that their interactions often involve Mendoza seeking guidance. Cousins also mentioned that sometimes, no words are needed, and he encourages Mendoza to trust his instincts.
Mendoza’s NFL debut was notable, with a quarterback rating of 100.3 and a touchdown pass without a turnover. Coach Kubiak praised Mendoza’s command in the huddle and his ability to execute play-calls, noting that he saw an “ascending player.” Mendoza himself expressed gratitude to his teammates and coaches for the opportunity, describing the experience as invigorating and making him feel “fully alive.” He also acknowledged areas for personal growth, stating that he felt he “let my teammates down today” despite his overall performance.
Club minority owner Tom Brady was present on the field before the game. It was suggested that Mendoza’s career debut compared favorably to Brady’s. In 2000, Brady completed 3 of 4 passes for 28 yards in his first NFL action. Mendoza’s debut included more completions and yards, along with a touchdown pass. Mendoza mentioned that Brady had spoken to the team the night before the game, and as a former backup quarterback from UC Berkeley, Mendoza never imagined playing for an NFL legacy franchise.
Other Team Developments
Beyond the quarterback position, the Raiders are also evaluating the starting right guard spot, with Jackson Powers-Johnson and Caleb Rogers competing for the role. Powers-Johnson started against the Cardinals. Kubiak expressed satisfaction with both players, noting that their competition is making them better and creating difficult decisions for the coaching staff, while also building depth for the team.
Rookie Trey Zuhn III, a third-round draft pick, has been practicing at multiple offensive line positions. He played as the second-team right tackle against Arizona. Kubiak stated that moving Zuhn around was part of the draft plan, aiming for him to gain live game repetitions in various roles.
In terms of injuries and absences, wide receiver Dont’e Thornton Jr., who had been out for several days with an undisclosed injury, is expected to return soon. Cornerback Decamerion Richardson did not play in Thursday’s game due to the birth of his child.
The coaching staff is currently developing a plan for the upcoming week, which includes determining how to allocate first-team reps among Aidan O’Connell, Kirk Cousins, and Fernando Mendoza.
Source: newsday.com
