Fernando Mendoza just took a massive step toward becoming the Las Vegas Raiders’ starting quarterback, earning extensive first-team reps against the Houston Texans’ formidable defense during a joint training camp practice on Tuesday. This wasn’t some fluke or random opportunity; it was Mendoza’s first time working with the starters in a session, a clear indicator that the rookie is quickly moving up the depth chart.
Kubiak Threw Mendoza Into the Fire For a Reason
Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak made it clear this wasn’t an accident. This was a calculated move, a test designed to push Mendoza against the best. Kubiak wanted to see how the rookie would handle going up against the Texans’ top unit, which was the No. 1-ranked defense in yardage allowed last season. Talk about a trial by fire, right? Kubiak said after practice, “I wanted to see him going against the Texans’ ones. That was our plan all along. I thought he did some good things. I look forward to watching the tape. But just he and his teammates, all these young guys that we’re playing, we’ve got to get them up to speed real quick.”
The Rookie Is Making His Mark
This big opportunity comes after Mendoza already impressed in his NFL debut. In the preseason-opening game against the Arizona Cardinals, he completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and even threw a touchdown. That kind of performance, combined with getting reps against the league’s top defense, shows the Raiders are serious about accelerating his introduction to the NFL. While veteran Kirk Cousins is the guy right now, the plan for Mendoza to eventually take over seems to be progressing, even if, as we all know in this league, plans can change in a heartbeat. The Raiders are definitely putting in the work to get their young QB ready.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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