Fernando Mendoza has officially signed his rookie contract with the Las Vegas Raiders, setting the stage for a quarterback competition in training camp and marking a key step forward for the team’s quarterback plans. Mendoza, the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, agreed to a four-year deal worth $57.2 million fully guaranteed, including a $38 million signing bonus. The contract also features a fifth-year option for the 2030 season.

Mendoza’s agreement comes as the Raiders completed their rookie class reporting to training camp. The deal’s structure, particularly the signing bonus payment schedule, had been a sticking point during negotiations. The Raiders have historically spread first-round signing bonuses over multiple payments rather than issuing a lump sum upfront, a practice that contrasts with other NFL teams. This arrangement with Mendoza could serve as a model for how the Los Angeles Rams finalize the contract of their own first-round quarterback, Ty Simpson, the 13th overall pick, who remains unsigned.

Simpson, a former Alabama quarterback, is widely expected to come to terms with the Rams shortly. His situation reflects a similar negotiation dynamic, with the Rams likely to emulate the Raiders’ framework for bonus payments.

Mendoza’s arrival intensifies competition for the Raiders’ starting quarterback role, a responsibility that currently rests with veteran Kirk Cousins, whom the team signed during the offseason to serve as a transition figure. While Cousins is expected to open the season as the starter, the Raiders have not ruled out Mendoza winning the job during camp.

A three-year collegiate starter, Mendoza began his career at California before transferring to Indiana for the 2025 season. Over 36 games, including 35 starts, Mendoza completed 691 of 1,008 passes for 8,247 yards, 71 touchdowns, and 22 interceptions. His final college season was remarkable, leading Indiana to its first national championship with an undefeated 16-0 record. Mendoza threw for 3,535 yards, topped the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) with 41 touchdown passes, and recorded just six interceptions.

With his contract settled, Mendoza is positioned to compete from day one to become the Raiders’ franchise quarterback, while the Rams await a similar commitment from Simpson to finalize their quarterback plans.