A CBS Sports analysis ranks the Las Vegas Raiders’ backup-quarterback situation first in the NFL, citing rookie Fernando Mendoza’s potential despite his having yet to take a regular-season snap. Mendoza is developing behind 38-year-old starter Kirk Cousins.
Mendoza won the 2025 Heisman Trophy and quarterbacked Indiana to a national championship before being selected first overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. The article describes the Raiders’ long-term plan as making him the face of the franchise while he learns from Cousins and coach Klint Kubiak.
