Fernando Mendoza has been tasked with breathing life into the Las Vegas Raiders after decades of misery, and he has made a strong start with a fanbase desperate for success
Fernando Mendoza dropped a curse word in his opening message to Raiders fans
Fernando Mendoza has wasted no time endearing himself to Las Vegas Raiders fans after being selected with the first overall pick in the NFL Draft.
The Heisman Trophy winner has been tasked with rejuvenating a beleaguered fanbase, which has seen playoff football just twice in the past 23 seasons. He joins forces with rookie head coach Klint Kubiak, who is riding high after winning the Super Bowl as the Seattle Seahawks’ offensive coordinator.
Mendoza was the consensus No. 1 overall pick after a sensational national championship-winning campaign with Indiana, and he has ignited hopes of a brighter future for the franchise, although he already has part-owner Tom Brady on his back with a five-word demand.
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Mendoza started on the right foot at an introductory event at the team facility on Friday. After taking the microphone and introducing himself to fans, the 22-year-old led them in a chant of “Raiders,” before adding: “Hey, let’s f—— go, I love you guys, I appreciate you coming out. It means the world to us, thank you, guys, again.”
Mendoza also faced reporters at a press conference, where he pledged to give his all to deliver success for the franchise.
“There’s a lot of anticipation coming to this pick, but now I’m really glad that all of the outside noise is done. I’m officially a Raider. I’m excited to be humble and hungry and get to work,” he said.
Mendoza has made a strong first impression in Las Vegas(Image: Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
“Especially as a rookie, nothing’s given, and my belief is that everything is earned. So, I’m going to come in humble, try to establish myself with my work ethic and lead by example, but at the end of the day, it’s all great saying these words, but I’ve got to do it.”
Mendoxa said he has been welcomed with open arms by the team’s veteran players, including quarterback Kirk Cousins, with whom he will be competing for the starting job.
“This morning and last night, I was able to get a text from a couple of guys like Maxx Crosby, Tyler Linderbaum, Kolton Miller, and Kirk Cousins,” Mendoza said.
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“I’m sure there’s been more. I’ll be looking forward to reaching out to all my new teammates and most of those guys.
“It’s been a whirlwind in the past couple hours, but Kirk sent me a really nice text, looking forward to working with him, learning anything I can from him, and just a great not only teammates that I will learn from but also the great coaches.”
In Friday’s second and third rounds, the Raiders selected Arizona defensive back Treydan Stukes, Auburn pass rusher Keyron Crawford and Texas A&M center Trey Zuhn III.