Former NFL player likens rookie Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza to Philip Rivers

During the Raiders' second preseason matchup with the Houston Texans, rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza threw 15 passes, completing eight for 86 yards and suffered an early pick-six, a lapse he corrected after a pep talk from teammate Maxx Crosby. Earlier, against Arizona, he posted a 10-of-16 performance with 97 yards and a touchdown. Former NFL player Kurt Benkert observed that Mendoza’s throwing motion reminded him of Hall-of-Famer Philip Rivers, offering high praise despite the interceptions.

Benkert, who previously described Mendoza as an efficient “operator,” also warned that the top draft choice alone may not transform the Raiders' fortunes. Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins is slated to start the regular season, while Geno Smith, the previous starter, posted modest metrics in the prior year. The commentary originally appeared on Pro Football Network.