Fernando Mendoza embraces 'once-in-a-lifetime' chance as Raiders' QB1, credits Kirk Cousins' mentorship

But his time as veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins’ backup ended this week, and Mendoza appears eager to embrace the "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity that awaits him.Although Mendoza described becoming the Las Vegas Raiders’ starting quarterback as a "new step," he also said he didn't want to make the mistake of making the moment larger than it needed to be.Mendoza’s first regular-season start will come Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, whose vaunted defense helped propel them to last season’s Super Bowl title.CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGEThis page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners.

If you sign up or place a wager, FOX News may be compensated.This content was created by a team that works independently from the FOX newsroom.Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza runs through a drill during a rookie minicamp at Intermountain Health Performance Center in Henderson, Nev., on May 2, 2026.

(Candice Ward/Imagn Images)Mendoza said his work and Cousins’ mentorship have helped him gain confidence and earn the trust of his teammates and coach Klint Kubiak."I'm a lot more confident as a quarterback and feel more developed, whether it's [playing] under center, connecting with teammates, understanding an NFL scheme," the No.1 selection in April's NFL Draft said Wednesday.

"There are so many areas that I have improved on, and I look forward to keep on improving."KIRK COUSINS REVEALS TOUCHING DECISION HIS SONS MADE AFTER TRADE TO VIKINGS: 'LET'S GO!'Mendoza’s teammates can certainly relate to what the young quarterback is facing as he adjusts to the NFL.That support includes standout tight end Brock Bowers, who said he is "excited" to see the rookie can do when he makes his first NFL start."Everyone has faith in him," Bowers said.

"[Mendoza] might have a bad play here and there, but you just got to flush it.I know he does a good job at that."Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza looks to throw against the H...