With the Las Vegas Raiders trading quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings before the NFL trade deadline, the Fernandomania has officially kicked off in the desert.
Mendoza who was the No. 1 draft pick this year, is slated to make his first career start against the reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, November 15, 2026.
Mendoza’ only appearance came in his debut, a Week 4 road loss to the New England Patriots on October 11.
He finished 6-for-8 passing for 48 yards.
Raiders GM John Spytek has confirmed that Mendoza will feature in the team’s starter moving forward on November 10.
Reacting to the Raiders’ trade, Kirk Cousins sends a 3-word message, and tags Mendoza while posting on his Instagram Story as he bids farewell to Raider Nation.
“Go get em (sic),” Cousins wrote.
The first two teams Mendoza will face have highly respected, strong defences.
Seattle’s defence, termed as the ‘Dark Side’ for a reason, didn’t allow a touchdown last week to the depleted Arizona Cardinals.
Next up for the Raiders is the road game against the Denver Broncos in NFL Week 11, then the Cleveland Browns.
