Full Breakdown
Fernando Mendoza Receives No. 15 Raiders Jersey, Symbolizing a New Era
4/25/2026, 2:25:57 PM
Passing the Torch: Flores Blesses Mendoza’s No. 15
The day after being selected No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft, rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza— the 11th Heisman Trophy winner to join the Raiders—visited Las Vegas Raiders headquarters. Coach Tom Flores—who wore No. 15 as the team’s first quarterback—gave his blessing, saying he would not know “what the hell I’m doing” if Mendoza were not “the real deal.”
Historical Context and Fan Base Claim
The Raiders have never retired jersey numbers, making the No. 15 hand-off a rare symbolic act. Mendoza, a Cuban-American whose grandparents fled Castro’s Cuba, called the franchise’s history “like no other” and said the team has “the most Hispanic fan base.” Former quarterback Jim Plunkett and Flores, both Mexican-American, are cited as Hispanic idols. Plunkett noted it has been 55 years since a Latino was taken first overall and urged the gap not repeat.
Timeline of Key Events
Draft day: Mendoza selected No. 1 overall. Day 1 post-draft: Flores blesses him with No. 15. Friday press conference: Mendoza claims the Raiders have the most Hispanic fan base. First OTA: veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins meets Mendoza in the quarterback room.
Official Statements, Responses, and Conflicts
Flores said his blessing required Mendoza to be “the real deal” and praised his ability to “make every throw.” Mendoza said he must “prove it and earn it every single day,” linking his Cuban-American background to the Raiders. Cousins said he will start only if he is “the best option,” while calling Mendoza “a great addition” with “a great future.” Sources differ on Mendoza’s role—some expect him to start, others view him as a backup to Cousins—and on Cousins’s contract, reported as both a five-year and a one-year deal.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Because if he's not the real deal, I don't know what the hell I'm doing.” — Tom Flores, Hall of Fame Raiders coach
- “The history of the Raiders, especially the Hispanic history, is like no other. I believe it's probably the most Hispanic fan base and legends like Mr. [Jim] Plunkett, like Mr. [Tom] Flores. I mean, all those legendary Hispanic idols and cornerstones of the franchise. It means a lot as a Cuban American to come to this franchise and help try to carry the torch. But again, I've got to prove it, and I'm really looking forward to connecting with the Hispanic community here,” — Fernando Mendoza, rookie quarterback
- “Honestly, I don't want to start unless I'm the best option.” — Kirk Cousins, veteran quarterback
- “It’s been 55 years since a Latino was taken first in the NFL Draft, and I hope it won’t take another 55 years.” — Jim Plunkett, former Raiders quarterback
What’s Next
The Raiders plan to integrate Mendoza gradually, with Cousins expected to start while Mendoza learns from veteran mentors, including Cousins, Flores, and Brady. His progress will be monitored through preseason practices and early-season games, positioning him for possible increased responsibilities later in the campaign.
