​Raiders quarterback hopeful Fernando Mendoza may not be the Week 1 starter in Las Vegas, but as the top pick in this year’s draft, he’s bound to arrive soon and is already soaking up guidance from veteran teammates about handling the leadership duties that come with his role. Defensive end Maxx Crosby featured Mendoza on his The Rush podcast, where he pressed Mendoza to discuss his dynamic with Kirk Cousins. Cousins, who joined the Raiders as a free agent, would be the other viable option to start in Week 1. Mendoza explained that Cousins has been a valuable source of insight, drawing from his extensive experiences with Washington, Minnesota, and Atlanta, and sharing lessons that are helping Mendoza prepare to lead.
A key takeaway Mendoza cited from Cousins is the importance of staying genuine in order to earn the respect of elder teammates as a leader. Crosby described that counsel as “spot on.” He emphasized that the transition to the pros changes the dynamics you face. In college, players are still growing and figuring out who they are as leaders while juggling academics. But in the NFL, the landscape shifts dramatically: every teammate is a grown man with his own life, family responsibilities, and distinct motivations. Crosby stressed that authenticity cuts through all those differences, advising Mendoza that being true to himself will never steer him wrong.
Crosby went further, acknowledging his own quirks and self-proclaimed off-the-wall moments, to illustrate that leadership isn’t about projecting a flawless image but about staying real and consistent. He noted that leaders don’t need to overdo anything or try too hard to prove themselves; genuine leadership emerges through action and consistency, not grandiose declarations. Mendoza’s path, Crosby suggested, is not about manufactured persona but about earning the trust of teammates through steady, authentic behavior.
As Mendoza continues his development at training camp, the Raiders are counting on him to embody the leadership traits that will resonate with a locker room full of seasoned veterans and demanding professionals. The hope is that his approach—grounded in authenticity, transparency, and a willingness to grow—will win over the locker room and establish him as a credible, dependable leader when his moment to steer the team arrives. In the meantime, Mendoza will keep absorbing guidance from Cousins and other veteran voices, integrating their insights with his own preparation to ensure he’s ready to lead when his chance comes. This blend of experience and personal authenticity figures to be the cornerstone of Mendoza’s early leadership journey in Las Vegas, as the Raiders navigate a pivotal season ahead.