Full Breakdown
Fernando Mendoza’s First Raiders Practice Highlights Preparation for Preseason Opener
8/13/2026, 7:56:42 AM
Open Practice at Allegiant Stadium – August 11, 2026
The Las Vegas Raiders held an open practice at Allegiant Stadium on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. Thousands of fans filled the stands while the team ran a 90-minute session that featured rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Mendoza completed two early throws to rookie wide receiver Malik Benson and to Jack Bech, then threw two interceptions in the two-minute drill, each ending the second-team offense’s drive. Defensive end Maxx Crosby received the loudest ovation, and the practice served as a dress rehearsal for the preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday.
Background & Context
After selecting Mendoza with the top pick, the Raiders signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, creating a quarterback room that also includes third-string Aidan O’Connell. A depth chart released in early camp listed Mendoza as the No. 2 quarterback behind Cousins. Head coach Klint Kubiak, in his first season, emphasized that the open practice was intended to test communication, familiarize players with the stadium environment, and give fans a preview before the Thursday game.
Key Figures & Groups
- Fernando Mendoza — quarterback, No. 1 overall pick
- Kirk Cousins — veteran quarterback, slated starter
- Klint Kubiak — head coach
- Malik Benson — rookie wide receiver, emerging as Mendoza’s preferred target
- Maxx Crosby — defensive end, fan-favorite
- Jermod McCoy — rookie cornerback expected to see game action
Data & Statistics
- Practice duration: approximately 90 minutes.
- Fan attendance: “thousands” of spectators.
- Mendoza’s throws: two completions (Benson, Bech) and two interceptions in the two-minute drill.
- Malik Benson’s receptions: two catches from Mendoza.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Klint Kubiak described the session as “really important” for both fans and players, noting that “coaches communicating with the headsets” was a key focus. He indicated that the starters, including Cousins and Mendoza, would receive significant snaps in the upcoming preseason game, while Maxx Crosby’s availability remained “TBD.”
Malik Benson said the experience would help him on Thursday, noting that getting used to the stadium lights would be beneficial.
On-the-Ground Reports
Fans reacted positively to Mendoza’s early completions, with one attendee saying he “looks really accurate” and appears “ready to play.” Another fan expressed confidence that Mendoza could eventually lead the Raiders to a Super Bowl, while a portion of the crowd urged the coaching staff to give the rookie an earlier start.
What’s Next
The Raiders’ first preseason game is scheduled for Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Allegiant Stadium against the Arizona Cardinals. Both Kirk Cousins and Fernando Mendoza are expected to see playing time, and the team will evaluate the full roster during the matchup. A second practice is not scheduled for Wednesday, giving players a day to rest before the game.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Coaches communicating with the headsets; which is really important for the whole operation,” — Klint Kubiak, Raiders head coach
- “I definitely feel like it’s going to help on Thursday; getting used to the lights, everything like that,” — Malik Benson
- “Our starters are going to play,” — Klint Kubiak, Raiders head coach
