Klint Kubiak is not afraid to say it how it is when it comes to Fernando Mendoza and determining if he’s ready to be the guy yet
The Las Vegas Raiders have their franchise quarterback in Fernando Mendoza, but he’s still got a ways to go according to Klint Kubiak.
The Las Vegas Raiders have a really good quarterback room. They have three guys who could start a football game if needed, and that’s not something you see often. But, still, the eyes remain fixed on the No. 1 overall pick, Fernando Mendoza, who’s currently QB2.
Mendoza has already improved a ton since Mandatory Minicamp and OTAs. We know that because the coaches have told us. However, that doesn’t mean he’s ready. In fact, Klint Kubiak has told reporters that Mendoza still has a ways to go. But that’s not necessarily bad; just letting everyone know. And, you like that honesty. Mendoza will be the franchise guy; just because he’s not ready right now doesn’t mean that’s delaying the inevitable. He has all the right tools to be the guy, and he will be just that.
Klint Kubiak talks about Fernando Mendoza and the mindset he’s got
“Yeah, I love the mindset that he has,” Kubiak said. “That’s what all of our players should have. Nobody has arrived, especially a rookie quarterback. So, you just keep giving them a new rep every day, and coach from it, and go back the next day, solve the problem, and go to work and fix a new problem. He’s just like everybody else that’s got to earn their way.
“He’s very coachable; all the quarterbacks are. Really, all of our players are. We’ve got guys that want to get better. So, when they’re eager to get better, you better make sure you’re on it as a coach. So, we’ve got to challenge ourselves as coaches and make sure that we’re giving them the right coaching points and helping them get to where they want to get to.”
Mendoza secured the top pick in the draft thanks to an outstanding résumé, highlighted by a Heisman Trophy and a recent National Championship at Indiana. While he’s projected to be the franchise’s future cornerstone, that doesn’t ensure he’ll start right away—especially if the coaching staff feels he needs further development. Mendoza will likely assume the starting role in time, and there’s a strong chance he plays more games in 2026 than Cousins.
However, he must first reach that level. The NFL presents a much greater challenge than college football. While Mendoza could likely play now, the team wants him fully prepared. He will be, in time. For now, this training camp stands as the most important phase of his career. He’s got to show the staff he’s ready.