Former NFL quarterback-turned-insider Jordan Palmer told The Jim Rome Show that Mendoza’s tape meets the NFL threshold: he’s mobile, can make every throw, and likes to throw on time. Palmer noted he first took notice of Mendoza on his way to Cal, after being tipped off that the young passer could be “really good.”
Palmer argued Mendoza would fit Las Vegas well, given the Raiders’ high-profile location and fan base. He suggested Mendoza could be the right guy to come in, win over Raider Nation, and weather the inevitable early-season challenges, even with the added intrigue of Tom Brady’s involvement with the organization.
With Brady holding a minority ownership stake, there is added pressure on how Mendoza is developed in Las Vegas. Yahoo Sports’ Jason Fitz emphasized that Brady must ensure the franchise builds the right infrastructure around Mendoza, warning that insufficient support would reflect poorly on the ownership figure many regard as one of the game’s all-time greats.
Fitz also stressed that a successful rookie season should prioritize development and stability. He argued every member of the organization—from offensive line to support staff—should align to Mendoza’s needs, speaking his language and reinforcing a culture focused on long-term growth rather than immediate wins.
Ultimately, the Raiders’ coaching decision could shape Mendoza’s trajectory and the franchise’s quarterback future. If Mendoza pans out, the chosen coach and the organizational infrastructure will bear the responsibility for converting a potential No. 1 pick into Las Vegas’ long-term answer at quarterback.
