Raiders making Fernando Mendoza earn every rep despite impressive start

HENDERSON, Nev.— On a day when Fernando Mendoza flexed some of that Indiana magic at Raiders’ minicamp, including a sharp touchdown throw to Malik Benson during a red zone period, and by attacking the middle of the field on a 25-yard dart to Dont’e Thornton, it was important to remember the top overall pick in the NFL draft was mostly working with the third-team offense.The depth-chart status is by no means a reflection of Mendoza’s skill set.

The Heisman Trophy winner and national champion has quickly won over Raiders decision-makers and teammates through his talent, work ethic and a level of curiosity indicative of a young quarterback driven to be nothing short of great.All arrows are pointing up.“He’s doing a great job, working hard, asking questions, learning the system, doing everything he should be doing,” said veteran Kirk Cousins, whom the Raiders brought in to help mentor Mendoza and potentially serve as the bridge quarterback until Mendoza is ready to take the reins.There is a strong belief within the Raiders’ building that it’s merely a matter of time before Mendoza is ready to do just that.Perhaps even as soon as the regular-season opener.But the Raiders aren’t just determined to make Mendoza earn it, every step of the way; they are committed to doing their part by developing him the right way, too.Part of that means establishing a starting line for him behind Cousins and Aidan O’Connell, and being meticulous in how they teach and build the quarterback they believe capable of leading them back to Super Bowl prominence.“You’re installing a system for the long haul,” said Mike McCoy, the Raiders’ assistant head coach.

“It’s not just this year, but it’s for the future.”It would be a mistake to assume they are just easing Mendoza into the fray, though.Or any of his teammates, for that matter, as new coach Klint Kubiak continues to upload his scheme, culture and environment in Las Vegas.The new level of urgency, work e...