Spytek Praises Mendoza’s Work Ethic as Raiders Prepare for Season Opener

Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak has not made a formal decision, but all indications throughout the offseason and training camp suggest that Kirk Cousins will open the season as the starting quarterback — despite the franchise selecting Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the draft.

Mendoza offered glimpses of his potential during the preseason, though his performance ultimately proved inconsistent.

Speaking on Tuesday, General Manager John Spytek emphasized that Mendoza has remained the same dedicated professional the organization came to know during the pre-draft evaluation process, adding that the team has been far from surprised by the rookie quarterback’s approach.

“He’s a tireless worker. He loves football. He loves his teammates. He’s energetic on the field. He’s self-critical. He’s self-aware. He’s very accurate,” Spytek said, according to the team’s official transcript. “His time is coming, but he’s got to earn it every day, and he knows that. I think we’re all very pleased with the person and his work ethic and his commitment to being a great quarterback.”

While the organization remains committed to ensuring Mendoza is fully prepared before taking the field, Spytek pointed to several prominent quarterbacks to illustrate that successful development can follow different paths.

“Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Jordan Love, Patrick Mahomes, Jayden Daniels. Like you said, there’s success stories and failures in both ways,” Spytek said. “We’re just trying to build the best team we can and play the guys that are most ready to play, and have a constant competition in every room, not just the quarterback room, but every room.

“The expectation always will be that the best person, the person that’s earned it, the person that can do their job for the team, will be the one that plays.”

Across his preseason appearances, Mendoza completed 25 of 45 passes for 240 yards, throwing one touchdown alongside two interceptions.

The Raiders will open their regular season at home against the Miami Dolphins on September 13.

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