Fernando Mendoza, the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, has signed a fully guaranteed four-year rookie contract worth $57.27 million with the Las Vegas Raiders, marking the official start of his tenure with the team.

Mendoza expressed his excitement about finalizing the deal in a video released by the Raiders, saying, "I'm excited to get this thing signed."

Despite Mendoza's signing, veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who inked a one-year deal with the Raiders this offseason, holds the starting quarterback position as the team heads into training camp. Cousins is expected to serve as a bridge while Mendoza learns the offense, adjusts to the speed of the NFL, and earns the starting job. The Raiders have indicated that if Mendoza does not take over the starting role, it would be due to Cousins' strong performance rather than Mendoza's readiness.

This signing is seen as a significant moment for the Raiders, an NFL legacy franchise that has faced challenges in recent years after a historically strong period defined by a "Commitment to Excellence." The organization and fans view Mendoza's arrival as a source of renewed hope for the team's future.

The Raiders' offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko has been working closely with both Mendoza and Cousins during minicamp at the Intermountain Health Performance Center in Henderson, Nevada.

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