Mike Greenberg believes the Las Vegas Raiders need a flexible plan for rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza. The veteran host argues that the team should not rush the young prospect.
Greeny thinks the decision depends entirely on the player. Hestated, “Fernando Mendoza should start when he is ready. If it’s Week 1, if it’s Week 8, if it’s year two–it doesn’t matter.”
“Fernando Mendoza should start when he is ready. If it’s Week 1, if it’s Week 8, if it’s year two. It doesn’t matter, it should be determined by his readiness.”‼️@Espngreeny shares his thoughts on the Las Vegas Raiders picking up Kirk Cousins and what it means for Fernando… pic.twitter.com/mz1oh1xJDD
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) April 3, 2026
The Raiders recently signed Kirk Cousins to a significant contract. This move suggests the team wants a veteran leader while Mendoza learns the professional game. Cousins provides a steady bridge.
Greeny noted the Raiders are paying Cousins real money. They obviously want him to start games now. However, he warned that “at some point, the players kind of decide for you.”
Las Vegas Raiders, Fernando Mendoza
Fernando Mendoza participates in Indiana University’s Pro Day at Mellencamp Pavilion on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
If Mendoza outplays the veteran in training camp, keeping him on the bench becomes difficult. Players want the best teammate under center. Teammates usually recognize who gives them the best chance.
The discussion compared this situation to Patrick Mahomes. Mahomes sat behind Alex Smith for a full year. This patient approach allowed him to master the system before facing NFL defenses.
Tom Brady might also influence this strategy. Brady understands the value of waiting for the right moment. His advisory role suggests the Raiders will prioritize long-term development over results.
Rushing a rookie can ruin a career. Many prospects fail because they face complex schemes too early. Starting too soon often leads to bad habits or injuries behind a struggling line.
The Raiders want to avoid these common mistakes. They view Mendoza as the cornerstone of their future franchise. By using Cousins now, they protect their investment while building a winning culture.
Kirk Cousins offers veteran leadership as Fernando Mendoza prepares for future
The quarterback room in Las Vegas looks stable for the first time in years. Both players have high character and low drama. This environment helps a rookie grow without pressure.
Greeny insists that readiness must be the only factor. He warned, “if Mendoza is clearly the better quarterback in training camp and preseason, it’s going to be very hard.”
The team must ignore the calendar and focus on progress. If Mendoza needs a full season to learn, the Raiders should wait. Success depends on timing rather than draft position.
The Raiders are playing the long game with their new roster. They have a plan to balance winning now and preparing for tomorrow. This patience could finally stabilize the organization.
Greeny concluded that “it should be determined by his readiness.” If Fernando Mendoza is clearly better, the contract should not matter. The best player must eventually take the field to lead.