Fernando Mendoza embraces ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ chance as Raiders’ QB1, credits Kirk Cousins’ mentorship

Fernando Mendoza will make his first regular-season start for the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, stepping in after veteran Kirk Cousins was traded to Minnesota. The No. 1 pick in this year’s NFL Draft called the role a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity, while saying he wants to approach it without making the moment bigger than it needs to be.

Mendoza credited his work and Cousins’ mentorship with helping him grow more confident and earn the trust of his teammates and coach Klint Kubiak. Tight end Brock Bowers and wide receiver Tre Tucker expressed confidence in the rookie ahead of his debut. Minnesota gave Las Vegas a third-round pick for Cousins, who had made nine starts and thrown for 2,340 yards, 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions.