The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis has turned into a high-stakes audition not just for prospects, but also for franchises wrestling with their future direction. The Las Vegas Raiders are no exception.
Amid a flurry of questions about the 2026 draft and potential franchise quarterbacks, Raiders‘ General Manager John Spytek delivered a stark update that’s reverberating across the league: top quarterback prospect Fernando Mendoza may not be thrust into the starting role right away even if he becomes the No. 1 overall pick in April.
This unexpected nuance emerged during Spytek‘s remarks at the combine, where the GM made it clear that while the Raiders are evaluating elite young quarterbacks, they’re also being cautious about integrating a rookie signal-caller into the lineup immediately.
His comments sent shockwaves through NFL circles – particularly among fans and analysts who have widely pegged Mendoza as the future face of the franchise.
Spytek’s message: patience over immediate starts
In a press session that touched on everything from team culture to player traits, Spytek repeatedly defined the characteristics the Raiders crave in a franchise quarterback – humility, relentless preparation, leadership, and an above-average football IQ.
Interestingly, the GM didn’t explicitly name Mendoza while outlining these traits, a move some interpret as intentional caution even amid heavy speculation that the Raiders covet the Indiana star.
Without naming him, Spytek emphasized that a young quarterback’s readiness must be judged not just by talent but also by readiness for the professional grind and the full weight of being an NFL starter.
That’s the backdrop to his most eye-opening remark: even if the Raiders select Mendoza, which is the worst-kept secret in the NFL right now, they might limit his exposure early to ease his transition into the league.
“Another quality player that can play the position if you have a young quarterback,” Spytek said, emphasizing his belief that veteran presence, roster construction, and situational deployment are all part of the calculus when it comes to starting a rookie quarterback.
What this means in practice is that Las Vegas could arrange a plan where Mendoza develops under the watchful eye of a veteran quarterback and the coaching staff before grabbing the Week 1 reins – a strategy that would be a departure from how top picks are often used.
The Raiders enter the draft cycle with enormous needs beyond the quarterback position. After finishing last in total offense last season, the franchise has to overhaul its offensive line, rejuvenate skill positions, and build a defense capable of complementing a dynamic offense.
That context is part of why Spytek is signaling caution: placing Mendoza under immediate pressure behind a thin roster could stunt his growth and set back a rebuilding effort.
Plus, the organization already has veteran options on the roster – including Geno Smith under contract – that could act as temporary stabilizers while Mendoza acclimates. Decisions about free agents like Kenny Pickett add further complexity to the quarterback room.
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