Full Breakdown
Fernando Mendoza Works Toward Under-Center Proficiency Ahead of Rookie Season
6/21/2026, 9:30:19 PM
Core Adjustment: From Shotgun to Under Center
Rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, selected by the Las Vegas Raiders, is focusing on mastering under-center snaps during the offseason. In college, Mendoza operated almost exclusively from the shotgun formation. The Raiders’ coaching staff has assigned him additional repetitions under center to align his skill set with NFL expectations before the upcoming season.
Background: Shotgun Dominance in College vs Under-Center Expectation in the NFL
College offenses frequently position quarterbacks in the shotgun for the majority of plays. By contrast, NFL teams continue to require quarterbacks to execute a portion of their snaps from under center, a practice that supports a broader range of play designs. This structural difference creates a transition challenge for players like Mendoza who have limited prior exposure to under-center play.
Key Figures & Groups
- Fernando Mendoza – Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback, transitioning from a shotgun-centric college background.
- Klint Kubiak – Head coach of the Raiders, responsible for the offensive scheme under which Mendoza is training.
- Las Vegas Raiders – NFL franchise implementing the development plan for Mendoza during the offseason.
- Raiders.com – Platform that published Mendoza’s interview regarding his progress.
Data Point: College Shotgun Usage and Offseason Reps
Mendoza’s collegiate experience involved “almost exclusively” shotgun snaps. During the current offseason, he reports receiving “a lot more extra reps” under center, indicating a deliberate increase in practice volume aimed at building proficiency.
Why It Matters: Impact on the Raiders’ Offensive Strategy
The ability to operate from under center meets the NFL expectation that quarterbacks execute a portion of snaps from that position. Mendoza’s progress in this area directly influences the Raiders’ ability to field an offense that includes under-center plays for the upcoming season. The development also aligns with the team’s overall offensive scheme.
Official Statements & Responses
In a Raiders.com interview, Mendoza described the transition as a “new challenge” presented by Coach Kubiak’s offense, noting that he enjoys the learning process. He expressed confidence that the additional repetitions are improving his comfort level and that he anticipates being fully adjusted by the start of the regular season. He noted that the challenge is new but enjoyable.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There’s a lot more under center variables that I’ve been learning, getting a lot of extra reps in, and I feel a lot more comfortable under center,” — Fernando Mendoza, Rookie Quarterback
- “It’s a great offense.” — Fernando Mendoza, Rookie Quarterback
- “It’s a great offense. I really believe in coach Kubak’s offense.” — Fernando Mendoza, Rookie Quarterback
What’s Next: Season-Opening Expectations
Mendoza expects to be fully adjusted to taking snaps under center by the start of the 2024 NFL season, expressing confidence in his readiness. He feels a lot more comfortable under center after the additional reps.
