Raiders rookie quarterback says competition with Kirk Cousins will be collaborative
First overall pick Fernando Mendoza signed his rookie contract and will join training camp, emphasizing a cooperative rivalry with veteran Kirk Cousins as he learns the Raiders' offense.
First-round quarterback Fernando Mendoza signed his rookie contract last week and will report to the Las Vegas Raiders' training camp, where he will begin learning head coach Klint Kubiak's offensive system. The rookie expects to receive limited reps with the first team while veteran Kirk Cousins handles the majority of the starter duties, creating a storyline around whether Mendoza can eventually surpass the veteran for the starting role.
During an appearance on the team's "Upon Further Review" podcast, Mendoza described the quarterback battle as a collaborative effort, stating, "We will be competing with each other, not competing against each other," and adding that such competition "pushes each other to be the best quarterback we can possibly be for the Las Vegas Raiders, and to enable us to win as many games as possible."
Mendoza said he looks forward to learning from Cousins, Kubiak and other staff, noting the complexity of the offense and his intent to "take advantage of" the opportunity. His performance this summer will determine how prepared he is when the team eventually calls on him.