**Fernando Mendoza, the Las Vegas Raiders' No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, opened his rookie season as backup quarterback to Kirk Cousins.** The 22-year-old Heisman winner and national champion from Indiana has not appeared in any regular-season snaps through the first three weeks, with the Raiders at 3-0 behind Cousins' efficient play. Mendoza's preseason showed mixed results, including some accuracy issues and turnovers, while Cousins earned the starting role. His passing touchdown total hinges on any midseason transition to starter, potential injury to the veteran, or expanded packages, with the team's offensive scheme and Cousins' leash length as key variables in a competitive AFC West.