Fernando Mendoza is preparing for his inaugural season with the Las Vegas Raiders in the NFL. The Raiders drafted Mendoza as the top overall pick in the 2026 draft, following his outstanding performance with the Indiana Hoosiers, which led to an undefeated 2025 season and a national championship. Adding to his accolades, Mendoza secured the Heisman Trophy last year. However, transitioning to the NFL presents new challenges to master.
During a minicamp at the Intermountain Health Performance Center in Henderson, Nevada, Raiders’ offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko worked closely with quarterbacks Mendoza and Kirk Cousins. The camp aimed to integrate Mendoza into the team’s dynamics and strategies.
Mendoza shared insights on advice received from Raiders minority owner Tom Brady. “As a quarterback, you need to excel in every aspect. Being the most competitive, the foremost leader, and demonstrating leadership are vital,” Mendoza recounted via the Raiders’ YouTube channel.
Tom Brady emphasized the necessity of both mental and physical toughness. Demonstrating these qualities helps in earning respect and effectively leading teammates. These principles play a critical role for Mendoza as he adapts to his professional career.
Kirk Cousins, the veteran quarterback, offers additional support to Mendoza. Although Cousins acknowledges learning alongside Mendoza, he refutes the notion of a mentor-mentee relationship. “The idea of me mentoring them is more fiction than fact,” Cousins remarked according to The Athletic. “They’re skilled players, and I’m gaining insights from them too.”
The decision of whether Mendoza or Cousins will start as the quarterback in Week 1 remains undecided. Cousins, armed with extensive experience, recently signed a two-year, $12.6 million contract with the Raiders, showcasing his enduring capacity to compete.