What happened: Head coach Klint Kubiak said the coaching staff is 'thinking about everything' when asked about elevating Fernando Mendoza into the starting lineup following a home defeat.

Why it matters: The franchise held the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner out of the opening-day lineup in September before giving him his first NFL snaps on Oct. 12. Turning to the rookie starter now would reshape the offense midseason as the team looks to halt its slide.

What to watch: Kubiak and the staff will determine first-team practice reps ahead of their next regular-season game.