The Las Vegas Raiders' owner is in no hurry to see rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza under center, despite the team's 4-4 record and the growing clamor from fans and analysts alike. Mark Davis made it clear this week that he's not pushing head coach Klint Kubiak to make a change, even as the No. 1 overall pick waits his turn behind veteran Kirk Cousins.
"From me, there's absolutely no pressure whatsoever," Davis told CNBC Sport's Michael Ozanian on Monday. The statement comes as Cousins has silenced doubters with 19 touchdown passes and a 101.4 passer rating, leading the Raiders to a .500 start. Yet the allure of seeing the franchise's future star in action remains strong for many.
Davis, however, is content to let Mendoza learn by watching. He believes the 23-year-old can benefit immensely from observing Cousins, who has served as a stabilizing presence since signing in the offseason. The owner also pointed to the influence of Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback and Raiders minority owner, who has been working with Mendoza behind the scenes.
"Today, there's a lot of pressure put on teams when they draft a guy No. 1 that you have to play him right away," Davis said. "That's why I think we were so fortunate to get Kirk Cousins as someone who could bridge the gap and let this young man learn a lot about what football is in the pros, the speed of the game, and the things that have to be done."
Davis's patience isn't born of concern about Mendoza's readiness. Instead, he recalls a bygone era when rookie quarterbacks were given time to develop before being thrust into the spotlight. "He's picking it up great, but I think we're fortunate that he doesn't have to go out and play," Davis said. "I've seen quarterbacks get fast-tracked onto the field, and they may do well, but they don't learn all the intricacies of footwork and everything else that it takes. So they're limited in their development, maybe throughout their career."
Mendoza, who became the first rookie quarterback taken first overall since Baker Mayfield in 2018 not to start in Week 1, has already impressed with his work ethic and demeanor. Davis is confident that when the time comes, Mendoza will be ready to lead. "I tell people jokingly, if he can play football, he's going to be amazing," Davis said. "Because he's got every other intangible that you would want in a person. He's a hard worker. He's a sponge."
The Raiders' quarterback situation has been a hot topic, especially with trade rumors swirling around Cousins ahead of the deadline. But Davis's comments suggest the team is committed to the current plan, prioritizing long-term growth over short-term excitement. The owner's stance echoes the growing belief that Mendoza is the future, even if that future isn't now.
As the season progresses, the pressure to play Mendoza will only intensify, especially if the Raiders stumble. But for now, Davis's message is clear: patience is a virtue, and the rookie's development is on track. Whether that approach pays off remains to be seen, but the owner's unwavering support for the coaching staff's decision is a testament to his faith in the process.
