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Raiders' Klint Kubiak not ready to name Week 1 QB; 'reps' key for Fernando Mendoza's development
NFL.com • • general
Key Points:
- Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza faced challenges in his NFL debut against Houston, completing 8 of 15 passes for 86 yards and throwing his first interception, which was returned for a touchdown.
- Head coach Klint Kubiak emphasized the importance of practice reps and development time for Mendoza, noting that growth comes with experience and consistent effort.
- The Raiders' coaching staff, including Kubiak, running back Mike Washington Jr., and offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko, are all in their first roles, contributing to the team's ongoing learning curve.
- Kubiak has not committed to naming a Week 1 starting quarterback, keeping competition open between Mendoza and veteran Kirk Cousins, who is currently favored to start.
- Despite the interception setback, Mendoza's preparation and performance in preseason have been praised, and the coaching staff remains focused on his long-term development rather than immediate starting status.
