Mendoza faces Seahawks in first start

Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza will make his first NFL start on Sunday, Nov. 15, against the Seattle Seahawks. The Raiders hope Mendoza can establish himself as a starter after a limited role during the 2026 season.

Mendoza entered the game late in a Week 5 loss to the New England Patriots in Las Vegas. In that appearance, he completed six of eight pass attempts for 48 yards. The Raiders lost that game 45-17 on the road.

The Seahawks defense plans to pressure Mendoza from the outset. Defensive tackle Byron Murphy II told reporters that the team lacks extensive film on the rookie, which makes identifying specific weaknesses difficult. Murphy II noted that Mendoza can make all the throws, but the defensive line intends to rush as a unit to disrupt his passing game. The defense aims to maintain high levels of communication to get after the quarterback.

Coach Mike Macdonald said the staff will rely on data gathered during the draft process. He described Mendoza as a player with a great skill set who is poised for a long career. Macdonald emphasized that the Seahawks will focus on playing their own brand of football and applying pressure to the Raiders offense.

Linebacker Ernest Jones IV acknowledged the challenge of facing a top draft pick. He observed that the Raiders have simplified their offensive schemes under new head coach Klint Kubiak compared to the previous year. Jones IV believes Mendoza is an intelligent player who will present a tough test for the defensive unit.

Kubiak’s first matchup against the franchise he previously helped lead to a Super Bowl championship adds a layer of familiarity to the game. Kubiak served as the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator during the 2025 season. Jones IV said the defense gained insights into Kubiak’s calling tendencies during practice last year. However, Jones IV noted that Kubiak has tweaked many aspects of the offense with his new squad.

Macdonald spoke highly of his former colleague, calling him a great team player. He said Kubiak possesses the ability to assess situations from a 360-degree viewpoint and communicates truth without sugarcoating. Wide receiver Cooper Kupp praised Kubiak’s work ethic and character, noting that Kubiak has become more outwardly energetic as a head coach.