Kirk Cousins started at quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders in their preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals, with first-year coach Klint Kubiak subsequently inserting top overall pick Fernando Mendoza into the game partway through the first quarter. The rookie remained on the field for nearly three full quarters, accumulating 10 completions on 16 attempts for 97 yards and a touchdown pass, along with six rushing yards and one sack.
Despite modest overall statistics, Mendoza’s performance drew positive assessments from observers who noted his poise under pressure, footwork in the pocket, and ability to work through progressions. He completed his first career pass to Jack Bech and threw his first NFL touchdown to the same receiver. Additional highlights included a 19-yard pass completion through traffic to Malik Benson and a 14-yard completion to Dylan Laube. The quarterback also executed a 7-yard scramble and demonstrated comfort with the offensive scheme installed by Kubiak.
Mendoza did have areas requiring improvement, including a sack on first-and-goal during his touchdown-scoring drive and instances where he held the football slightly too long. Analysts noted that this preseason performance occurred against a team projected to rank among the weakest in the league, and cautioned that true assessment would require performance against stronger competition.
The Raiders signed Cousins to lead the offense in regular season play while allowing Mendoza to develop through backup reps and additional preseason action. The franchise has no contract commitment to Cousins beyond the current season, creating potential flexibility regarding the quarterbacks’ roles. Supporting talent around Mendoza includes receivers Brock Bowers, running back Ashton Jeanty, and center Tyler Linderbaum.
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