Overview
- Mendoza is expected to open his rookie year behind veteran Kirk Cousins, with analysts saying the veteran is the likely Week 1 starter.
- Early rookie work has focused on taking snaps under center and refining footwork and timing that he rarely used in college.
- Rookie teammates praised Mendoza’s leadership and effort, noting he organized extra under-center reps at the team hotel with lineman Trey Zuhn III.
- Anonymous college coaches questioned his NFL traits and reliance on back-shoulder throws, while other coaches highlighted his poise in big games.
- Mendoza said he would skip Indiana’s White House visit if it conflicts with practice, underscoring his plan to earn his role through daily work.