Fernando Mendoza chose to set the mood differently when he was drafted first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. He even shifted the spotlight to a message that was neither about the title nor the ego but rather about one's mental attitude.

After being the first overall pick in this year's draft, Mendoza chose to frame his mindset differently from that moment.

“I believe I’m still the underdog. I can tell you right now, I’m not one of the 32 quarterbacks. I’m at the bottom of the totem pole right now. I’m ready to do whatever the team needs.” Fernando said.

People read the quote after it got shared by MLFootball on X, where it was captioned as "POWERFUL: Fernando Mendoza after being the first overall pick."

The post featured his full statement and went viral on social media mainly because of the contrast between being a No. 1 pick and still calling himself an underdog.

During his final season with the Indiana Hoosiers, Mendoza threw for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns, with a completion percentage of 72%. He led the Hoosiers to a 16-0 unbeaten run, winning the Heisman Trophy and the CFP National Championship.

Even after reaching the pinnacle of the draft, Mendoza's message indicated new beginnings. His statement came as a finishing touch on his collegiate story.

His journey was less about where he was picked and more about what he still needs to prove at the next level against veteran Kirk Cousins.

Mendoza’s Arrival Raises Questions Around Kirk Cousins’ Role in Vegas

Once the Raiders drafted Mendoza, the focus swiftly turned to veteran Kirk Cousins and if his late-career savvy might support the Raiders' system.

Getting Mendoza through the draft is a fresh start. However, it doesn't automatically mean that he will be the one entrusted with full responsibility right away.

It is this kind of situation that has left the door open for veteran figures like Cousins to be a part of the bigger conversation.

Despite his departure from the Falcons, Cousins has had a storied 14-year NFL career and could provide Mendoza with the mentorship he needs in his rookie season.

The Raiders have been looking for a player to lead them at quarterback for a long time now. With Mendoza's arrival and Cousins' veteran leadership, the Raiders are looking to make an instant impact in the upcoming season.

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Written by

Debanjali Rakshit

Edited by

Rishab Nandi