Anonymous ACC coach doubts Raiders QB Mendoza's NFL traits
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza drew criticism from an anonymous ACC college football coach who questioned his readiness for the NFL. The coach, who faced Mendoza during his time at California, told ESPN that Mendoza relies heavily on back-shoulder throws that may not translate. Mendoza lacks the necessary NFL traits despite good decision-making, the coach said, adding that his college receivers elevated his performance.
Mendoza transferred to Indiana after playing for the Cal Golden Bears and led the Hoosiers to a national championship in the 2025 season while winning the Heisman Trophy. The Raiders selected him No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL draft. He joins a team under head coach Klint Kubiak with veteran Kirk Cousins as a mentor and general manager John Spytek praising his size, athleticism, intelligence and work ethic.
In his lone season at Indiana, Mendoza passed for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns. He delivered a game-winning touchdown pass to Omar Cooper Jr. against Penn State with a toe-tap catch sealing the victory with 36 seconds left. Indiana defeated Miami in the national title game.
Spytek rejected trade offers for the top pick, confident in Mendoza as the franchise quarterback tasked with restoring Raiders success.
