What happened: The Las Vegas Raiders named rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza their starter heading into Week 10. Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft out of Indiana, takes over first-team duties following the trade of veteran Kirk Cousins.
Why it matters: Las Vegas sits at 4-5 following a 38-17 loss to San Francisco and pivots to their rookie passer with eight games remaining. The promotion ends a nine-week stretch where the franchise kept Fernando Mendoza on the bench behind Cousins.
By the numbers: Mendoza has completed 6 of 8 passes (75.0%) for 48 yards across one appearance in 2026. The Raiders sit at 4-5 following a 38-17 loss to the 49ers.
What to watch: Mendoza prepares for his first career NFL start when Las Vegas faces Seattle. The rookie will look to stabilize an offense facing division matchups down the stretch.