Raiders Backup Mendoza Criticized Over New Finance Series
The 2025 Heisman winner launched a financial literacy project while the team maintains a 3-0 start.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Football
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Raiders backup quarterback Fernando Mendoza has launched a video series titled Finance with Fernando aimed at teaching financial literacy to Gen Z. The project has drawn public criticism from NFL analysts Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski, who contend that a professional quarterback's primary focus should remain on football.
Why it matters
The distraction debate centers on whether a rookie's off-field business interests impede their development during a competitive season. With the Raiders currently holding a 3-0 record, the franchise remains focused on the performance of starter Kirk Cousins.
The Raiders have opened the season with a 3-0 record, while Kirk Cousins has recorded 661 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and three interceptions through his first three games.
The players
Fernando Mendoza
The Raiders backup quarterback and 2025 Heisman Trophy winner who recently launched an educational finance video series.
Kirk Cousins
The Raiders starting quarterback who has recorded 661 passing yards and nine touchdowns this season.
Julian Edelman
An analyst for NFL on FOX who criticized Mendoza for his focus on finance.
Rob Gronkowski
An analyst for NFL on FOX who questioned the professional priorities of Mendoza.
The details
Mendoza, the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner and first overall draft pick, holds a business administration degree from UC Berkeley and an MBA from Indiana's Kelley School of Business. He recently recorded 240 passing yards during his preseason debut. The Raiders currently utilize Kirk Cousins as the starter, who is maintaining a 67.4% completion percentage as the team continues its season.
Timeline
1976: Ken Stabler threw three touchdowns in his first two starts.
2025: Fernando Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy.
September 2026: Raiders opened the season with a 3-0 record.
Beyond the Strip
The current focus on the Raiders quarterback situation recalls the 1976 season, when Ken Stabler threw three touchdowns in his first two starts for the franchise. This season's narrative extends that long-standing local preoccupation with the team's signal-caller.
Fans watching the current 3-0 season can expect the team to continue relying on Kirk Cousins for the immediate future. Residents should monitor team injury reports and depth chart changes to see when or if Mendoza sees active playing time.
The takeaway
The Raiders' successful 3-0 start keeps the focus on the field despite the ongoing conversation regarding Mendoza's off-field business pursuits. Fans should monitor future roster updates to see if Mendoza's role shifts as the team moves deeper into the season.
Further reading
For more on the team's progress, visit our Football section.
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Should professional athletes prioritize their primary sport over pursuing external business interests?
