Raiders’ Mendoza throws first NFL touchdown in preseason opener
Las Vegas plans for Mendoza to learn under veteran Kirk Cousins for a full season before taking over as starter.
Fernando Mendoza, the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, recorded his first professional touchdown during the Las Vegas Raiders’ preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday, 14 August 2026. The performance marked the quarterback’s debut in the league, where he completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and one score.
Mendoza entered the game as a backup to veteran signal caller Kirk Cousins, who started the contest. The Raiders’ organisational strategy involves Mendoza spending a full season learning under a proven NFL quarterback before potentially assuming the starting role. Cousins is expected to retain the position throughout the season.
During the second quarter, with the Raiders trailing by a touchdown, Mendoza connected with wide receiver Jack Bech on a seam route to deliver the ball into the end zone. The play, which was captured and shared by NFL reporter Adam Schefter, represented Mendoza’s first NFL touchdown.
Mendoza’s debut began with a first-quarter completion to Bech that resulted in a first down late in the period. He continued to dissect the Cardinals’ secondary with multiple throws in the first half, demonstrating an ability to operate at the top level of the sport.
Despite the strong statistical showing, the source material notes there were moments during the performance where Mendoza showed room for improvement. The Raiders’ decision to keep Cousins at the helm allows Mendoza to develop without the immediate pressure of leading the offence.
The game served as the opening match for the Raiders in the NFL preseason. While the final score was not provided in the source reporting, Mendoza’s ability to make plays resembling his best collegiate moments suggests readiness for future starting duties.
The Las Vegas organisation has indicated that Mendoza’s development timeline is prioritised, with the current plan focused on his growth under veteran guidance rather than an immediate transition to the starting quarterback position.
