Overview
- Kubiak publicly warned on June 11 that Mendoza must improve every day or risk being passed up, signaling the team will not give the rookie the Week‑1 job by default.
- Kirk Cousins has taken most first‑team reps in spring work and the coaching staff says they are counting on him to provide short‑term stability for the offense.
- Coaches and reporters report Mendoza has made measurable progress with timing and under‑center footwork, but he has mostly worked with second‑ and third‑team units through minicamp.
- The Raiders have addressed protection and support by hiring veteran O‑line coach Rick Dennison and making Tyler Linderbaum the offensive‑line centerpiece, moves meant to help a rookie quarterback’s transition.
- Training camp and early preseason live reps remain the decisive window for the QB decision and for roster moves tied to health and trade value for Cousins.