Keen to avoid a wrong quarterback decision, the Raiders have focused their attention on Mendoza, though they reportedly engaged with at least one alternative during the process. Baylor signal-caller Sawyer Robertson revealed he met with the Raiders for a virtual session, suggesting the team is at least surveying long-term depth options rather than pursuing a direct competition for Mendoza.
Robertson, a 6-foot-4 passer who posted solid yardage and touchdown totals over the past two seasons, brings pro-style traits and an athletic profile. However, questions about accuracy and consistency on intermediate routes have tempered his draft stock, with projections placing him as a late-round pick or undrafted free agent. The Raiders, who already have Aidan O’Connell on the roster, could view Robertson as a developmental backup behind Mendoza.
The Raiders are widely expected to add a veteran presence to mentor Mendoza, potentially creating a two-quarterback depth chart. Names such as Kirk Cousins or Derek Carr have been floated as mentoring options, which could shift O’Connell’s role or even make him expendable if Mendoza is viewed as ready to contribute early.
Beyond Mendoza, developing a developmental rookie like Robertson could provide valuable insurance and a longer-term backup option. A steady, accurate mature presence behind Mendoza would allow Las Vegas to groom a successor while maintaining flexibility for the roster, especially if Mendoza progresses rapidly.
In summary, Las Vegas remains focused on Mendoza as the core asset for its future at quarterback but is quietly evaluating secondary options as a backup pathway. The organization’s strategy suggests balancing a high-ceiling quarterback with a reliable development track, ensuring readiness for multiple potential scenarios in the quarterback room.
