Yahoo Sports NFL on Fernando Mendoza

Mendoza takes over as starter in Week 14; development arc from struggles to sync.

Mendoza is projected to take over as the Raiders' starting quarterback in Week 14 after the team is 3-9 heading into the bye week. Despite minority owner Tom Brady's plan for Mendoza to sit and learn as the No. 1 overall selection in the 2026 draft, Mendoza starts in place of Kirk Cousins. The source notes his first start against the Chargers 'isn't pretty but the lumps taken in this game help Mendoza's development.' In Week 15 against Denver, Mendoza faces a dizzying array of pressure but 'it's this defeat where things click for Mendoza.' By Week 16 against Tennessee, Mendoza is in-sync with Kubiak's offense.

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