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Is Fernando Mendoza Playing Today? Why Raiders QB Isn’t Doing Anything vs. Bills

Is Fernando Mendoza playing against the Bills today? Here's why the Raiders' No. 1 overall draft pick remains idle Sunday.

By Jonathan Vankin · Heavy

Published: Sunday, 18 October 2026 at 8:29 PM

Key Things to Know

Fernando Mendoza is remaining on the bench as the backup quarterback against the Buffalo Bills.
Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak confirmed veteran Kirk Cousins remains the team's starting quarterback.
Cousins is tied for second in the NFL with 12 touchdown passes through five games.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza remains on the bench for Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills. Head coach Klint Kubiak confirmed that veteran Kirk Cousins remains the starting quarterback, keeping the No. 1 overall draft pick in the backup role.

Cousins has thrown 12 touchdowns through the first five games while leading Las Vegas to a 3-2 record. Mendoza made his NFL debut late in a 45-17 loss to the New England Patriots, completing six of eight passes for 48 yards.

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Is Fernando Mendoza Playing Today? Why Raiders QB Isn’t Doing Anything vs. Bills

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