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Fernando Mendoza made his NFL debut Thursday night as the Las Vegas Raiders opened the preseason against the Arizona Cardinals, and we finally got an extended look at the No. 1 overall pick in live game action.
Former Raiders wide receiver Ryan Hoag joins Jesse Merrick to break down what Mendoza showed in his first professional game, from his adjustment to NFL speed and handling pressure to some of the throws that flashed exactly why Las Vegas made him the first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
We also break down Kirk Cousins and the Raiders' starting offense, including an efficient opening drive that featured plenty of motion and multiple personnel groupings. Plus, what did the first-team defense show, and which players helped — or hurt — themselves in the first preseason game?
On this episode:
Fernando Mendoza's first extended NFL action
What Mendoza did well — and where he still needs to improve
Kirk Cousins and the starting offense
Jack Bech making the most of his opportunities
Mike Washington Jr.'s explosive night
The Raiders' cornerback competition
Darien Porter and Jermod McCoy's performances
Greedy Vance emerging in the secondary
Concerns about the Raiders' defensive line and pass rush
Keyron Crawford, Cian Slone and other young defenders
Our biggest takeaways from Raiders vs. Cardinals
QUESTION OF THE DAY:
What was YOUR biggest takeaway from Fernando Mendoza's debut? Let us know in the comments.
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