The Las Vegas Raiders are considering the talented Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza as a potential successor to veteran Geno Smith.
The Raiders have solidified their 53-man roster for the upcoming season, with Geno Smith set to lead the team under the guidance of head coach Pete Carroll. Despite early career struggles, Smith found success in Seattle, earning Pro Bowl honors and surpassing 4,000 passing yards twice.
However, with uncertainty looming over Smith’s performance, the Raiders are keeping a close eye on Mendoza. Nick Baumgardner’s mock draft predicts the Raiders selecting the 6-5, 225-pound quarterback in the 2026 draft, contingent on Mendoza’s 2025 season performance.
Mendoza’s potential has raised expectations, hinting at a bright future for the Raiders if he lives up to the hype. The team’s decision to consider Mendoza showcases a proactive approach to securing their quarterback position for the long term.