The Las Vegas Raiders aren’t quite ready to give Fernando Mendoza the key to their franchise. However, the number one pick in the 2026 NFL Draft is expected to get to that point this season. NFL teams have very different philosophies when it comes to starting rookie quarterbacks. Many franchises hand over the reigns to their highly-coveted players immediately, including Drake Maye and Caleb Williams. Meanwhile, the Raiders do have precedent when it comes to taking things slow with their new QB. Klint Kubiak recently announced that Kirk Cousins will start Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins. That puts Mendoza in the same category as Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Baker Mayfield when he was drafted first overall. The Cleveland Browns opted to keep Mayfield on the sidelines for the first week in 2018. MORE: Raiders name starting quarterback for Week 1 Raiders take precaution with Fernando Mendoza Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) hugs his father after warm ups before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Trim-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) The Raiders have a lot invested in Mendoza, so it makes sense why they’d take precaution with the former Indiana star. That’s especially the case considering Las Vegas’ offense doesn’t have a lot of weapons in the passing game. MORE: Bengals star Ja’Marr Chase launches podcast with viral NFL influencer Brock Bowers is an elite young tight end, but the Raiders haven’t filled out their wide receiver room yet. Meanwhile, Ashton Jeanty does present promise in the rushing attack after being drafted early last season. NFL Week 1 starters after being drafted No. 1 since 2009 Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) stands on the sidelines during the second half in the game against the Cincinnati at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Matthew Stafford (2009) Sam Bradford (2010) Cam Newton (2011) Andrew Luck (2012) Jameis Winston (2015) Kyler Murray (2019) Joe Burrow (2020) Trevor Lawrence (2021) Bryce Young (2023) Caleb Williams (2024) Cam Ward (2025)
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