Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza makes his first NFL preseason appearance in an opening loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Multiple outlets describe the debut as more encouraging than disastrous, with Mendoza showing composure and flashes of promise despite the team’s defeat.
According to reports, Mendoza enters the game early—taking his first snap with 3:39 left in the opening quarter—and later accounts for a touchdown pass. Yahoo Sports says he completes 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and throws a score to Jack Bech. Other accounts emphasize that Mendoza’s performance is characterized by poise rather than perfection, noting mistakes and the transition from college to the NFL.
The New York Post adds context from Mendoza’s comments after the game, saying the competition level is “a different level” than what he has been used to. Yahoo Sports also highlights that after the loss, Mendoza focuses on film study rather than relaxing, portraying a disciplined approach to learning from his first game.
