Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis has explicitly stated that he feels no pressure to rush backup quarterback Fernando Mendoza onto the field. Although Mendoza's status as the No. 1 overall draft pick has generated significant questions regarding when he will assume the starting role, Davis told CNBC Sport's Michael Ozanian on Monday that he is completely satisfied with the current situation.
Davis described Mendoza as a hard worker and a "sponge" who is benefiting from mentorship by both retired superstar Tom Brady, the team's minority owner, and veteran starter Kirk Cousins. The owner highlighted Cousins' role in bridging the gap for the rookie, allowing him to absorb the speed of professional football and the necessary intricacies of the game without being forced into action prematurely.
The discussion comes as the Raiders have faced growing scrutiny over Mendoza's playing time following a four-game losing streak. However, the team recently snapped that skid with a 38-33 victory over the New York Jets on Sunday, improving their record to 4-4. Despite these earlier struggles, Cousins remains highly effective, currently holding the second-most passing touchdowns in the league this season.
Drawing from his own observations of the sport dating back to the 1960s, Davis noted that quarterbacks sometimes sat for several seasons before starting. He expressed relief at not having to fast-track Mendoza, warning that rushing young players often limits their long-term development by skipping essential lessons on footwork and game management.
Mendoza, a 23-year-old who led the Indiana Hoosiers to a 2026 National Championship and won the Heisman Trophy, has appeared in only one regular-season game, completing six of eight passes. The rookie has maintained a team-first attitude, prioritizing wins over personal playing time. Before the NFL draft in April, Mendoza expressed excitement about learning from his childhood idol Brady, citing the former quarterback's unique football intelligence and mental approach to the game.
Sources: CNBC Markets.