It looks like Fernando Mendoza is gearing up for a big leap into the NFL, even before the draft clock starts ticking. The buzz around the top quarterback prospect is reaching a fever pitch, with strong signals pointing toward his future with the Las Vegas Raiders as the No. 1 overall pick.
On Friday, fresh updates emerged about Mendoza's trajectory. It's becoming increasingly clear that the Heisman Trophy winner is not only on the Raiders' radar but is already diving into their playbook.
NFL insider Daniel Jeremiah shared some intriguing insights on "The Pat McAfee Show," revealing that Mendoza is currently working with Brian Griese. But this isn't just about polishing footwork-it's about getting a head start on the Raiders' offensive system. Jeremiah likened this to Joe Burrow's early preparation with the Bengals, emphasizing the advantage of familiarizing oneself with the team's core language and strategies.
The Raiders aren't exactly keeping their cards close to their chest regarding their top pick. Minority owner Tom Brady has been actively involved in assessing Mendoza, having witnessed his stellar performance at the College Football Playoff final, where Mendoza's Indiana Hoosiers clinched a dramatic victory over the Miami Hurricanes.
While Mendoza seems poised to take the reins in Las Vegas from the get-go, the Raiders are considering a more gradual transition. They’re looking to pair him with a seasoned veteran who can mentor him for a year or two, a move that could be crucial for his long-term success.
As March rolls into April, Mendoza is expected to continue immersing himself in the Raiders' playbook. He may not be wearing the iconic silver and black just yet, but it's only a matter of time before he steps onto the stage in Pittsburgh, ready to make his mark as the newest member of the Raiders.