– The Raiders finished last in 2025, but theyβre eyeing building blocks like Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty while they chase a true quarterback solution.
– Mendoza could be that answer, with Geno Smith not the long-term answer and the Raiders already eyeing him for a potential foundation piece.
– Front office scouts reportedly weighing Mendoza during the national title game vs. the Miami Hurricanes, signaling serious interest ahead of the 2026 draft. π
– Amy Trask says: if Mendoza solves the QB issue, draft him; if thereβs any doubt, explore what a first-round pick could fetch. But if heβs your long-term solution, keep him. π§
– Even with Mendozaβs potential, Las Vegas must fix its protection and run gameβthe team allowed the most sacks and rushed for the fewest yards this season. Pass protection and a stronger ground game are essential. π‘οΈπ
– Mel Kiper Jr. calls Mendoza a βpretty much a lockβ for the Raiders. Mendoza flashed in big games and in 35 career starts, cutting sacks from 41 to 18 and delivering eye-popping numbers: 10 total TDs (9 passing, 1 rushing), 1 INT, and about 74% completion. π₯π
– The 2026 NFL Draft in April looms, with combines and pro days coming up as Mendozaβs pro readiness continues to be evaluated. ποΈ
If Mendoza lands in Las Vegas, a franchise quarterback era could finally rise from the Silver and Blackβs rebuild. ππ₯π
