For anyone wondering whether Fernando Mendoza will take a bit of time to adjust to the NFL, it might be time to put your concerns to rest. The first overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft made his debut in the preseason opener for the Raiders on Thursday and quickly showed he has what it takes to play at the top level. Mendoza immediately began dissecting Arizona's defense, linking up with wide receiver Jack Bech late in the first quarter for his first completion – which went for a first down – before dicing up the Cardinals' secondary on multiple throws in the first half. And then, with the Raiders trailing by a touchdown in the second quarter, he perfectly placed the ball in the end zone as Bech split the Arizona defense on a seam route, giving Mendoza his first NFL touchdown.
Fernando Mendoza’s first touchdown pass. pic.twitter.com/H6ZXnvwK2i — Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 14, 2026 But Mendoza did not earn the starting nod in his first go. As has been reported throughout the offseason, the Raiders went with veteran signal caller Kirk Cousins as the starter. It is expected he'll retain the role throughout the season as Las Vegas gives Mendoza a full season to learn underneath a more proven NFL quarterback. And that might be for the best, as there were a few moments during Mendoza's performance where he showed room for improvement. But overall, it was a strong showing, as he finished 10-for-16 for 97 yards and one touchdown. And if he can continue to make plays that resemble some of his best moments from his debut on Thursday, he'll be ready to serve as an NFL starter in no time at all. This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Fernando Mendoza puts NFL on notice with first TD in preseason opener