Jun 3, 2026, 10:30 AM CUT

Raiders OC Makes Feelings Clear on Fernando Mendoza's OTA Performance

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza answers questions from the media during the NFL, American Football Herren, USA Scouting Combine on February 27, 2026 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire NFL: FEB 27 Scouting Combine EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon2602270203

The Las Vegas Raiders had the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. They selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza, believing that he could become the face of the franchise. With expectations building, many are eager to see how Mendoza has performed during OTAs.

Raiders’ offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko shared how Mendoza has been impressing them during this short time.

“Yeah, I think that’s something we ask from all quarterbacks is just to know the ‘whys’ behind every play,” Janocko highlighted on the rookie’s mental approach. “Know the ‘what,’ know the ‘whys,’ and be ready to go above and beyond the X’s and O’s at times to make things right."

Quarterback positions come with leadership and mental demands. Even though Mendoza is new in the NFL, he has already taken command of understanding the offense well and processing the information, beyond focusing on arm talent and other skills.

Raiders wide receiver EJ Williams enters OTAs with questions surrounding his place on the roster, but the former Indiana receiver has already found a connection with Mendoza. Throughout the second week of practices, Mendoza has delivered several eye-catching passes to his former teammate.

May 20, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA. Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) stretches during organized team activities at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images

Per Sam Warren ofThe Athletic, Mendoza hit Williams on an accurate crossing route during one of the final plays of Thursday's team period.

Besides working on his chemistry, Mendoza's accountability also stood out for the coach.

“If there’s something that he needs to improve on, he takes that step," said Janocko. "Whether it be getting away from center, or it’d be something where he gets through a progression either too fast or maybe he’s a little slow on stuff."

From the coach's take, Mendoza has showcased an amazing attitude and seems very keen to learn and get better. He proved that attitude recently by turning down a special visit.

Fernando Mendoza Not Happy After Having To Miss Training For NFL Event

Mendoza turned down a chance to visit the White House last month to meet President Donald Trump with the rest of his teammates after the Indiana Hoosiers' national championship win. Now that he is in the NFL, he refused to keep himself away from practice.

The league, however, dragged Mendoza away from practice to attend the NFL Players Association Rookie Premier event. Later on, he opened up to Gilbert Manzano of Sports Illustrated about how he was not too happy to participate in the event.

“I’m going to be honest with you - I’d rather be practicing right now and I was really upset about actually having to miss practice for this,” the quarterback said.

However, he did mention that he would still make the most of the present moment and really benefit from being at the event.

Mendoza's dedication impresses more considering that he is still not sure about his future starting in Las Vegas. Since the Raiders decided to sign quarterback Kirk Cousins this offseason, he might have to sit and develop.

What do you think of Mendoza's future in Las Vegas? Let us know in the comments.

Written by

Dhruv Vishnu Nair

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar