Fernando Mendoza’s deep passing a fit for new Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JANUARY 19: Fernando Mendoza #15 of the Indiana Hoosiers throws a pass against the Miami Hurricanes during the first quarter in the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship at Hard Rock Stadium on January 19, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images) | Getty Images

With the Las Vegas Raiders starting to build their coaching staff, they will begin preparing for the 2026 NFL draft next week at the NFL Combine. While they try to build up their draft boards, the number one pick in the draft is uneventful. Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is the likely pick and will be able to grow with Klint Kubiak as the head coach.

One of the reasons Mendoza will be the pick is his ability to throw the ball downfield accurately. Kubiak is known for explosive plays, with the Seattle Seahawks ranking 3rd in explosive play rate. Whether in the run game or through the air, the team is always finding a way to get chunk plays on offense.

This could allow Mendoza to thrive with his skill set and with the addition of play-action. Check out Mendoza's deep stats below. He has been consistent when throwing the ball down the field, ranking 5th in completion percentage according to PFF in 2025.

Straight dime by Mendoza on this deep post route pic.twitter.com/xYgWeeATWs

- Marcus Johnson (@TheMarcJohnNFL) February 18, 2026

In the play above, you see how Mendoza's throwing downfield is a plus for his game. Just a beautifully placed football on the post route allows the receiver to run right under the football.

With players who can win downfield, such as Tre Tucker, already on the roster, the Raiders' offense can finally get the boost it needs with the combo of Mendoza and Kubiak.