Gutierrez: Fernando Mendoza delivers in his debut; the bigger test awaits

Key Points:

• Raiders' No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza showed promise in his NFL debut during a preseason loss to the Cardinals, demonstrating poise, trust in his arm, and effective downfield vision while playing with backup offensive players.
• Mendoza completed 10-of-16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown, finishing with a passer rating of 100.3, but also experienced a typical rookie mistake with an ill-advised sack, highlighting the learning curve at the NFL level.
• Raiders coach Klint Kubiak emphasized Mendoza's need for experience and reps, noting he is an "ascending player" who will be developed carefully behind starter Kirk Cousins, whose position is "to lose."
• Mendoza acknowledged the speed and physicality difference between college and the NFL, crediting veteran Tom Brady's advice on the elevated challenge while expressing a commitment to growth and improvement.
• The Raiders plan to continue building Mendoza's experience through upcoming preseason games and practices, aligning with a deliberate development strategy rather than rushing him into a starting role.