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While the move caught many in the locker room by surprise, the coaching staff has been preparing for this transition since the offseason. Head coach
A Baptism by Fire Against Seattle
Mendoza’s first start will be a formidable challenge, as he is set to face the Seattle Seahawks, a team currently boasting one of the league’s most aggressive defenses. Despite the difficulty of the assignment, the Raiders are not planning to simplify the game plan. Kubiak has expressed full confidence in the 23-year-old’s ability to operate the entire playbook, citing the extensive work Mendoza put in while serving as the backup, which included simulating game-day calls and visualizing reads during extra practice sessions.
The rookie’s preparation has been exhaustive. Quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan highlighted that Mendoza frequently stayed late at the team’s training facility to walk through plays and refine his footwork. This dedication was evident during his NFL debut in Week 5 against the New England Patriots, where he remained composed despite facing pressure on more than half of his dropbacks. His ability to handle high-pressure situations is not new; former high school coach Dave Dunn noted that Mendoza’s leadership and poise under duress were defining traits during his prep career in Miami.
Adding a New Dimension to the Offense
The shift to Mendoza is expected to bring a different tactical element to the Raiders' offense. While Cousins provided veteran stability, Mendoza offers greater mobility, which the coaching staff intends to leverage through an increased use of designed rollouts. This adjustment could provide a necessary spark for an offense that has struggled to find consistency in its rushing attack and wide receiver production outside of Tre Tucker.
Teammates have rallied around the rookie, with center Tyler Linderbaum emphasizing that Mendoza’s work ethic has earned the locker room's trust. As the team prepares for the upcoming clash against Seattle, the focus remains on collective execution. With the Seahawks likely to target the middle of the field to neutralize tight ends Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer, the Raiders will need a balanced performance to support their new starter. For now, the organization is betting that Mendoza’s preparation and natural talent will allow him to navigate the complexities of his first NFL start.
