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Las Vegas Raiders Have the Best Backup QB Situation — It's Not a Surprise 1
Fernando Mendoza has given the Las Vegas Raiders an intriguing option behind their starting quarterback, helping create one of the NFL’s more secure backup situations. The rookie’s development has added another layer of depth to a position that can quickly become critical when injuries strike.
Mendoza entered the league with considerable attention after a productive college career and has shown the traits necessary to develop into a dependable professional quarterback. His ability to process defenses, distribute the ball and operate within an offensive structure gives Las Vegas a promising option if he is eventually called upon for meaningful snaps.
Las Vegas Raiders, Fernando Mendoza, NFLLas Vegas Raiders, Fernando Mendoza, NFL
Jun 9, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) and coach Klint Kubiak during minicamp at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Raiders also benefit from having a quarterback who can continue developing without the immediate burden of carrying the entire offense. That situation allows Mendoza to learn the pace of the NFL, improve his preparation and become more comfortable with the demands of playing quarterback at the professional level.
What makes the situation particularly valuable is the balance between present security and future potential. Mendoza can provide the organization with an emergency option while also receiving valuable experience that could strengthen his ability to contribute if his role expands later in the season.
NFL Analysis Reveals Las Vegas Raiders’ Backup QB Situation as the Best in the League
Las Vegas Raiders, Fernando Mendoza, NFLLas Vegas Raiders, Fernando Mendoza, NFL
Jun 9, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) runs during minicamp at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Las Vegas’ backup quarterback situation has been named as the best in the league. This is detailed more in an analysis by Garrett Podell for CBS Sports.
Yes, 2025 Heisman Trophy winner, Indiana Hoosiers national championship-winning quarterback and 2026 NFL Draft first overall pick Fernando Mendoza hasn’t taken an NFL regular-season snap, but his potential while marinating under Las Vegas Raiders coach Klint Kubiak was enough for him to garner the top spot. Kubiak helped continue Darnold’s revival in Seattle last season as the offensive coordinator of the Super Bowl champion Seahawks, and now he has the Raiders out to a 2-0 start with a more physically limited, 38-year-old version of Kirk Cousins in 2026.
Obviously, the long-term plan is for Mendoza to be the face of the franchise, but the longer he is able to learn from Cousins and Kubiak, the higher chances he’ll have to make an immediate splash when his number is called upon.
The rookie’s presence also creates competition within the quarterback room, which can benefit the team during a long season. Preparing a young quarterback for unexpected opportunities requires consistent work in practice, and Mendoza can continue building familiarity with the offense while remaining ready if his number is called.
Las Vegas cannot eliminate the risk that comes with losing its starter, but Mendoza gives the team a developing quarterback capable of providing another option. If his progress continues, the Raiders could have both immediate depth and a promising long-term piece behind their starter, making the position one of the team’s more intriguing areas.