Raiders' QB Fernando Mendoza listed as a top backup option in 2026

Despite Las Vegas Raiders selection of former Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Mendoza will enter his rookie campaign as the Raiders’ backup quarterback behind veteran Kirk Cousins. Making for one of the better backup QB situations in the league this season.

The rookie may find himself on the gridiron should Cousins begin to struggle, however, and Mendoza could undoubtedly emerge as a difference maker on Las Vegas‘ offense in 2026.

CBS Sports’ Zach Pereles recently revealed his top ten current backup quarterback options in the NFL prior to the 2026 season. Mendoza was listed at number two behind San Francisco 49ers‘ quarterback Mac Jones despite being a rookie.

“Fernando Mendoza enters the season as Kirk Cousins’ backup. How long he remains there is TBD. So the question is how well he fares once he’s elevated. The Raiders tried to upgrade their supporting cast, though the wide receiver group would give anyone pause. The best version of Mendoza might be the best version of Cousins, but with even better arm strength and athleticism. That would make him a top-10 quarterback in the NFL. He won’t be anywhere close in Year 1, though. Regardless, it’s a tough task trying to pencil in Mendoza among backups, and the unique circumstances make it even more difficult. Even if the Raiders don’t win a lot with him leading the way, and he has his share of struggles, he should show enough to make Las Vegas excited for the future.”

Advertisement

“Fernando Mendoza enters the season as Kirk Cousins’ backup. How long he remains there is TBD. So the question is how well he fares once he’s elevated. The Raiders tried to upgrade their supporting cast, though the wide receiver group would give anyone pause. The best version of Mendoza might be the best version of Cousins, but with even better arm strength and athleticism. That would make him a top-10 quarterback in the NFL. He won’t be anywhere close in Year 1, though. Regardless, it’s a tough task trying to pencil in Mendoza among backups, and the unique circumstances make it even more difficult. Even if the Raiders don’t win a lot with him leading the way, and he has his share of struggles, he should show enough to make Las Vegas excited for the future.”

Mendoza recorded 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns in his one and only season at Indiana in 2025. The talented quarterback played a critical role in the Hoosiers’ National Championship run last season, and Mendoza has proven to thrive in the spotlight on numerous occasions across his collegiate career at both Cal and Indiana.

The rookie will undoubtedly need to stay ready at all times this season. Cousins is entering his fifteenth NFL season in 2026, and the veteran has dealt with a handful of serious injuries over the last few years of his career.

Cousins will more than likely enter Week 1 as the Raiders’ starting quarterback, but Mendoza remains as one of the top backup options in football for now.