Why Raiders’ Fernando Mendoza is excited for Texans preseason clash

With the preseason debut for Las Vegas Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza in the 27-14 loss against the Arizona Cardinals last Thursday, the quarterback is looking to further improve in the clash with the Houston Texans this Thursday. As Mendoza looks to be the future of the Raiders, he spoke about the upcoming preseason game and why he is excited for the opportunity.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, he was asked what he hopes to take away from his second preseason game against the Texans, with the Indiana product highlighting the opponent’s defense. Plus, it gives him the chance to improve on the flaws from his preseason debut.

“I’m looking forward to playing Houston because, one, they’re a great defense,” Mendoza said, according to Vincent Bonsignore. “Two, I feel like now with the experience, be able to move forward. Like I said, tranquilo, my feet were a little fast, a little out of control, be a little more on control. Survey the field, see it a little better.”

“I’m really excited for this upcoming game and all the opportunities that I have in the future,” Mendoza continued. “Was the opportunity today, you know, and the next opportunity will be Thursday. Then we have practice, then we have the Niners. Every opportunity forward, I’m trying to capitalize.”

.@Raiders rookie QB Fernando Mendoza on what he hopes to get out of his second preseason game on Thursday pic.twitter.com/YdAl0rMC6M

— Vincent Bonsignore (@VinnyBonsignore) August 18, 2026

Raiders’ Fernando Mendoza has perspective on preseason debut 

In Mendoza’s preseason debut for the Raiders last Thursday against the Cardinals, he completed 10 passes out of 16 attempts to go along with 97 yards and a touchdown throw. While Mendoza thought the game was good to get his “feet wet,” he would blame himself for not putting his team in position to win the game.

“I think it was good to get my feet wet, and we weren’t able to come out there with a win, which I put on myself because I think my teammates did fantastic. But I think it’s a good learning experience,” Mendoza said.

Mendoza will look to show his improvements in the outing against the Texans, which is ultimately in preparation for whenever Las Vegas decides to play the rookie this season.

The post Why Raiders’ Fernando Mendoza is excited for Texans preseason clash appeared first on ClutchPoints.