Overview
- Reports from OTAs and mandatory minicamp show Fernando Mendoza acknowledged “growing pains” as coaches praised his work ethic and steady improvement.
- Mendoza spent most spring reps with second and third units while Kirk Cousins took first‑team snaps, and the Raiders have publicly signaled Cousins is the probable early starter.
- The team has built a mentorship network around Mendoza that includes minority owner Tom Brady, whom Mendoza studies regularly and consults for technical and mental guidance.
- Coaches are focused on correcting specific transition issues—chiefly Mendoza’s footwork, timing, and in‑center drops after he took very few under‑center snaps in college.
- The decisive decision will come in pads‑on training camp and the preseason, when game‑speed reps and the state of the offensive line and receiving corps will shape any midseason or sooner promotion.