Mendoza’s Unwavering Sideline Commitment Sets New Standard for Raiders Backup QBs

What does an NFL backup quarterback do on the sideline? For Fernando Mendoza, it means staying intensely involved in every play, even when not taking snaps. His level of engagement has drawn praise from those who understand the nuances of the position.

Kirk Matthews, a former NFL player and current Las Vegas Raiders radio analyst, recently discussed Mendoza’s approach on “Not So Fast” on September 23. According to Matthews, Mendoza is not merely waiting for his opportunity but actively preparing for future responsibilities while maintaining professionalism in the present.

“He is extremely patient. He is well aware of the situation,” Matthews explained. “I enjoy speaking with Fernando whenever possible because he understands this is part of the long-term strategy. Everything he does is oriented toward building a lasting career, which we believe will be with the Raiders.”

The Raiders selected 38-year-old Kirk Cousins as their starting quarterback instead of Mendoza, who previously led Indiana University to a national championship before being chosen first overall in the NFL Draft. Despite the Raiders’ modest preseason expectations, the team has started 2-0 with Cousins performing effectively (67.8% completion rate, 413 passing yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions).

In earlier times, backup quarterbacks typically relied on clipboards and basic note-taking. However, Mendoza has adopted a more proactive role during games, demonstrating unprecedented involvement from the sidelines.

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Fernando Mendoza of Indiana football plays for Las Vegas Raiders in NFL preseason debut

Aug 13, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

(Kirby Lee, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

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Fernando Mendoza of Indiana football plays for Las Vegas Raiders in NFL preseason debut

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Fernando Mendoza of Indiana football plays for Las Vegas Raiders in NFL preseason debut

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Fernando Mendoza of Indiana football plays for Las Vegas Raiders in NFL preseason debut

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Fernando Mendoza of Indiana football plays for Las Vegas Raiders in NFL preseason debut

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Fernando Mendoza of Indiana football plays for Las Vegas Raiders in NFL preseason debut

“He wears his helmet on the sideline because he wants to hear the play call that is being given to Kirk Cousins on the field,” Matthews noted. “He hears the play call, he recites back the play call to our quarterbacks coach, which is (Mike) Sullivan. Then he discusses what’s going to happen on this play or what he sees from the defense.”

“There’s still a developmental process with Fernando Mendoza, and he’s even doing that within the game. I’ve never seen anything like it. In all my years of playing football, covering the league, I’ve never seen the backup quarterback with his helmet on, reciting the plays, fully engaged in the football game. That is something that will help him out whenever he gets that opportunity to start at quarterback for the Raiders.”

If Mendoza gets called into action in Week 3, Week 8, or during the 2027 season, he will be thoroughly prepared. Indiana fans are familiar with that kind of readiness and commitment.

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