How Fernando Mendoza amazes in attacking the Raiders scout team QB role

Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza has impressed coaches and teammates with his preparation and performance as the team's scout team quarterback. Offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko said Mendoza's combination of talent and work ethic suggests "you have something special."

Mendoza has shouldered the primary scout team duties in recent weeks while Aidan O'Connell was away from the team following the death of his father. The role requires Mendoza to learn the Raiders' game plan each week while also studying the habits of opposing quarterbacks such as Josh Allen, Drake Maye and Patrick Mahomes to simulate them in practice.

Cornerback Taron Johnson, who entered the league with Allen in Buffalo, said Mendoza's accuracy and mobility have given the defense fits. "Fernando is up there," Johnson said. "He's not playing in the games, but from what I see in practice I think he's definitely trending in the right direction. I feel like he's going to be a great quarterback in this league."

Coaches have noticed Mendoza working alone on the indoor practice field late at night, running through imaginary huddles and full progressions. Quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan said Mendoza emphasizes whatever the defensive coaches want to see, extending plays and emulating the specific traits of each week's opponent.

Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal