Fernando Mendoza, the first overall draft pick and new hope for the Las Vegas Raiders, is experiencing some tough times as a rookie. During the preseason game against the Houston Texans, he faced challenges that are typical for newcomers.
In the second pass of the game, Mendoza threw an interception that was noteworthy for its impact. Texans linebacker Wade Woodaz intercepted the pass and returned it 80 yards for a touchdown.
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza in action against the Houston Texans under pressure during the first half of an NFL preseason game on Aug. 20, 2026, in Houston. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
Mendoza’s spirits were visibly affected as he stood on the Raiders sideline, his frustration evident despite attempts at consolation from his teammates. Among those supporting him was veteran Maxx Crosby, one of the Raiders’ most seasoned players.
You have to experience ups and downs in football, and it’s all about how you respond,Crosby shared with ESPN’s Laura Rutledge.That’s the gist of what I told him, to stay true to himself and continue playing.
Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders celebrates during the AFC Wild Card Playoff game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium on January 15, 2022, in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
In contrast to his NFL debut against the Arizona Cardinals, where Mendoza completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown without an interception, his performance against the Texans was less successful. He completed 8 of 15 passes with a passer rating of 42.6, hampered by the interception returned for a touchdown. His inconsistency was evident with a mix of completed and missed throws.
ESPN analyst Troy Aikman, a former top pick himself, noted that Mendoza’s learning curve involves understanding that the defender-receiver dynamics in the NFL are more intense and the players are quicker than in college.
The NFL demands a faster pace,Aikman emphasized,and Mendoza needs to adjust to that reality quickly.
Mendoza’s second NFL game, serving as his first start, could be a valuable lesson in adapting to the speed and competitiveness of the professional level.