Anonymous ACC coach doubts Raiders QB Mendoza's NFL traits
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza drew criticism from an anonymous ACC coach who questioned his readiness for the NFL. The coach, who faced Mendoza during his time at California, told ESPN on Monday that Mendoza relies too heavily on back-shoulder throws that will not translate to the pros. Mendoza lacks the necessary NFL traits, the coach said, adding that his college receivers bailed him out on plays that would lead to interceptions against professional defenses.
Mendoza transferred to Indiana after playing for the Cal Golden Bears and elevated the Hoosiers to a national championship in the 2025 season. He won the Heisman Trophy that year before the Raiders selected him No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL draft. The Raiders assigned him the task of reviving the franchise under head coach Klint Kubiak, with veteran Kirk Cousins slated to mentor the rookie.
Mendoza posted 3,535 passing yards and 41 touchdowns in his lone season at Indiana. Highlights included a game-winning touchdown pass to Omar Cooper Jr. against Penn State, where Cooper made a toe-tap catch with 36 seconds remaining. Raiders general manager John Spytek expressed enthusiasm last month, describing Mendoza as a big, athletic, smart and driven quarterback.
Mendoza participated in rookie minicamp this spring at Intermountain Health Performance Center in Henderson, Nevada. The Raiders declined trade offers for the top pick, confident in their choice.
