Las Vegas Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza pushing through first challenge in NFL
The NFL has completed the draft, and teams have already begun rookie minicamps. The 2026 draft class faced a quick turnaround and is now getting to work in May. The Las Vegas Raiders opened their rookie camp this week, and No.
1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza wasted no time getting started. He’s already facing his first major quarterback challenge at the professional level. Reports indicate that Mendoza is adjusting to taking snaps from under center again.
While he has done it before, his college career rarely required it. MORE: 5 expiring NFL player contracts to watch for ahead of training camps During the 2025 season at Indiana, Mendoza took just 3% of his snaps from under center and operated almost exclusively out of the shotgun. May 2, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) runs through a drill during a Rookie Minicamp at Intermountain Health Performance Center.
Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images This trend isn’t unusual. Many high school and college offenses rely heavily on the shotgun. However, head coach Klint Kubiak runs a more balanced system.
In 2025, Kubiak’s Seattle Seahawks offense took most of its snaps from under center. The Raiders will likely follow a similar approach in 2026. That said, Kubiak may tailor the offense early on to support Mendoza’s development.