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Las Vegas Raiders coach Klint Kubiak indicated Tuesday that first-overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza will earn the starting quarterback job based on his individual performance rather than the overall capability of the offense surrounding him. Mendoza, last year’s Heisman Trophy winner at Indiana, is currently the backup to Kirk Cousins ahead of the season opener September 13 against Miami.
The Raiders’ offensive infrastructure presents significant challenges for any quarterback entering the league. The team struggled with a statistically worst-ranked offense last season, averaging 14.2 points and 245.2 yards per game, both last in the NFL, with the offensive line also ranking near the bottom of the league.
Management has attempted to address front-line concerns by signing three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum to the richest contract ever for an interior lineman, while left tackle Kolton Miller returns after missing all but four games last season due to an ankle injury. Competition remains active at right guard between Jackson Powers-Johnson and Caleb Rogers.
The receiving corps continues to lack a definitive top option, prompting Kubiak to critique the unit following Thursday’s 22-20 preseason win over Houston. Running back complications emerged after second-year starter Ashton Jeanty suffered an injury during Sunday’s practice, leaving rookie fourth-round pick Mike Washington Jr. to assume first-team snaps.
Kubiak emphasized that quarterback evaluation transcends surrounding circumstances, stating the decision ultimately rests on individual quarterback development and performance. Offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko reinforced this approach, noting that coaching staff will assess players across all position groups based on practice execution and preseason game results.
Mendoza has demonstrated notable adjustment to taking snaps directly under center after relying almost exclusively on shotgun formations during his college career at Indiana. Backup center Jordan Meredith praised Mendoza’s precision and command, noting no complications with the transition.
The Raiders face the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday night in the final preseason contest for both teams. Raiders coach Kubiak will face his brother Klay, who serves as the 49ers’ offensive coordinator, in what Kubiak acknowledged would be competitive despite their close relationship.
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