What happened: Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza called his first career NFL start against the Seattle Seahawks a "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity. He is expected to take the first snap Sunday.
Why it matters: Las Vegas drafted Mendoza first overall out of Indiana in the 2026 NFL Draft. The start puts the rookie under center for a team that lost 38-17 at the San Francisco 49ers on Nov. 8.
By the numbers: Mendoza has completed 6 of 8 passes for 48 yards in 2026 through 1 game. Seattle won 17-3 over the Arizona Cardinals in its last game on Nov. 8.
What to watch: Mendoza faces a Seahawks defense that allowed 3 points in its most recent outing.