Rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza faces early test in Raiders preseason loss
The No. 1 overall pick threw an interception for an 80-yard touchdown in the first half, though Las Vegas showed resilience against a top-ranked Houston defence.
Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza played the entire first half of the team's second preseason game against the Houston Texans on Thursday. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft completed eight of 15 passes for 86 yards and one interception in the contest.
Mendoza's performance was marked by an early stumble against a Houston defence that ranked No. 1 in yards allowed per game in 2025. After converting a second-and-15 with a throw to Jalen Nailor, Mendoza threw an interception that was returned 80 yards for a touchdown by Texans linebacker Wade Woodaz. The play placed the Raiders in a 14-0 hole early in the game.
Despite the early mistake, Mendoza displayed resilience. Veteran defensive end Maxx Crosby provided a pep talk on the sideline, and the rookie subsequently connected with running back Dylan Laube for a first down. Mendoza also completed a pass to tight end Ian Thomas, which set up a 52-yard field goal from Matt Gay.
The Raiders trailed 20-3 at halftime when Mendoza's playing time ended. In his preseason debut against the Arizona Cardinals, Mendoza had completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and one touchdown.
Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins is expected to remain the starter for the near future, with Mendoza fulfilling a backup role. Head coach Klint Kubiak has indicated that Mendoza still has development to do before being ready to start in the NFL.
According to Fox Sports, the game provided learning moments for the rookie as he adjusts to the professional level.
