{
  "id": 13934424,
  "title": "Fernando Mendoza: Good to gain some regular season experience",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/12/fernando-mendoza-good-to-gain-some-regular-season-experience",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-12T10:30:50.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/fernando-mendoza-good-gain-regular-103050918.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Fernando Mendoza, the first overall pick of the 2026 NFL draft, made his regular season debut on Sunday in a game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Mendoza took over as the team's quarterback after the departure of Kirk Cousins with the Raiders trailing 45-17 against the Patriots. He appeared in action for just over six minutes in the fourth quarter, completing six of his eight passes for 48 yards without scoring any points.\n\nHead coach Klint Kubiak praised Mendoza's performance, stating that he did a good job in his limited time on the field. However, Kubiak also indicated that there are currently no plans to make Mendoza the team's starting quarterback. The primary objective of the move was to provide Mendoza with exposure to regular season football, with the coach emphasizing that it is beneficial for Mendoza's development as he prepares for more significant game situations. Mendoza himself expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating that it will help him control the controllable aspects of his game, learn from the experience, and build confidence in his abilities.\n\nThe Raiders' recent struggles, having lost two consecutive games following a 3-0 start, have raised concerns about the possibility of a permanent change in the quarterback position. With a challenging stretch of five tough opponents in their next five games, including the Bills, Rams, 49ers, and Seahawks, the team may face increased pressure to make a lasting adjustment under center. Mendoza's brief appearance on Sunday, while limited in scope, could serve as valuable preparation as the Raiders navigate a difficult period in their season.",
  "summary": "The first overall pick of the 2026 draft made his regular season debut on Sunday afternoon.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}