January 1, New Raiders Era Shapes High-Profile Draft Pick’s Uncertain Path

Wyatt’s Take

• Mendoza led Indiana to a national title and is projected as a top pick for Las Vegas.
• Coach Klint Kubiak prefers young quarterbacks to learn behind a veteran before taking the field.
• The Raiders still have Aidan O’Connell on the roster, while Maxx Crosby remains a major defensive presence.

Raiders coach Klint Kubiak wants top prospect Fernando Mendoza to learn from the sidelines before taking the field as a rookie.

Kubiak believes young quarterbacks often benefit from studying a veteran leader before facing NFL pressure.

Kubiak said, “Ideally, you don’t want him to start from Day 1.”

He added, “You’d love him to be able to learn behind somebody.”

The coach acknowledged that some rookies are forced into action immediately, but praised Mendoza as a natural winner and an intelligent player who understands how to lead a team.

The team also got a boost when star pass rusher Maxx Crosby returned after a trade to Baltimore fell through.

Kubiak said he was excited to keep the veteran leader on the defensive side of the ball.

With a playoff win drought stretching back to 2002, the Raiders are still pushing for a culture change.

Whether Mendoza starts early or waits, the pressure is on the new coaching staff to deliver results for the Silver and Black.

Wyatt Matters

Working hard, learning the trade, and earning your spot still resonate with families across Middle America.

Raiders Coach Favors Veteran QB Over Starting Rookie