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The internal strategy was specifically tied to the team's performance in the middle of the season. Had the Raiders suffered consecutive losses to the Seattle Seahawks and the Denver Broncos, the coaching staff had determined that Mendoza would make his first career start on November 29 against the Cleveland Browns. While the team maintained a public stance regarding a developmental plan for the rookie, the decision to move toward the future was always part of their broader strategy for the 4-5 squad.
A Dedicated Development Path for the Rookie
Raiders head coach
A significant portion of Mendoza's development has been overseen by veteran quarterback coach Mike Sullivan. Since the spring, the pair has engaged in a rigorous personal tutoring program. During practice sessions, Mendoza would practice calling plays and executing footwork away from the main group while Cousins took the primary repetitions. During games, the duo would stand apart from the action, allowing the rookie to simulate play-calling and defensive checks while observing how the veteran quarterback navigated the live environment.
This specialized training extended to film study, where Sullivan and Mendoza would break down the rookie's performance on the scout team. If errors occurred, the process was repeated until the execution was correct. While Cousins handled the vast majority of first-team passing reps, the coaching staff occasionally integrated Mendoza into rushing drills to ensure he remained acclimated to the speed of the game. With the trade of Cousins for a 2027 third-round pick now official, the Raiders are moving forward with their primary objective: evaluating their future under center.
