Fernando Mendoza Opens Up About Joining the Raiders
Fernando Mendoza, drafted No. 1 overall by the Las Vegas Raiders, emphasizes the importance of earning leadership through performance and accountability rather than being given it. Despite his calm and family-oriented personality off the field, Mendoza acknowledges being demanding and assertive when leading teammates on the field. He is prepared to start his NFL career from the bottom, aiming to build credibility and equity within the organization, whether playing or developing behind veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins.
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By Tyler ErzbergerShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.On the outside, Fernando Mendoza is the nicest guy you'll meet.He doesn't party or get into any drama and is close with his family. The NFL wanted Mendoza in Pittsburgh when he was drafted No. 1 overall by the Las Vegas Raiders, but he declined so he could spend the night with everyone he grew up with, who had led him to this point.But when asked about the approach to becoming a Heisman Trophy winner and a College Football Playoff national champion, Mendoza was honest about his approach to leading a team.While he might be a nice guy off the field, on the field, he isn't afraid to command respect and dictate…
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