Fernando Mendoza Set to Take Over as Raiders Starting Quarterback

The Las Vegas Raiders are making a change at quarterback by officially naming rookie Fernando Mendoza as their new starter. The organization had a clear developmental plan for Mendoza in Year 1 and stuck to it for as long as possible before deciding to sit previous starters and insert the rookie. Mendoza now takes over the offense as the Raiders transition their long-term strategy heading into the second half of the 2026 NFL regular season.