Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza Signs Rookie Contract

Fernando Mendoza, the top pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, has officially signed his rookie contract with the Las Vegas Raiders. The announcement came on Thursday, marking a significant step in Mendoza’s professional football journey.

This signing makes Mendoza the last of the Raiders’ ten draft picks to put pen to paper, with fourth-round cornerback Jermod McCoy having wrapped up his deal just a day earlier. The contract is valued at $57,271,500 across four years, and it also includes a team option for a fifth season. These figures adhere to the NFL’s rookie scale, though certain aspects of the contract, particularly the payment schedule for Mendoza’s $38.1 million signing bonus, were subject to negotiation.

“I’m excited to get this thing signed,” Mendoza expressed in a social media post from the team. “Excited to be a part of the silver and black. Can’t wait. Appreciate you guys for all your support. Let’s get this thing rolling.”

As rookie camp begins, Mendoza is likely to start the upcoming season in a backup role behind veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. The Raiders’ rookies reported for training camp the same day the contract was announced, with veterans set to join the roster within the next few days.

Prior to joining the Raiders, Mendoza had an impressive college career, culminating in his triumph at the Heisman Trophy awards and leading Indiana to a national championship in January. In his final collegiate season, he amassed an impressive 3,535 passing yards, alongside 41 touchdowns and six interceptions. Additionally, he contributed to the ground game with seven rushing touchdowns.

With this signing, Mendoza officially begins his journey in the NFL, holding high expectations as he steps into the spotlight with the Raiders.