Colin Cowherd warns: Raiders offensive line issues could impact Fernando Mendoza's rookie season

Although Fernando Mendoza's arrival in Las Vegas appears imminent with the first overall pick of the 2026 Draft, the excitement has run into a harsh warning from Colin Cowherd, which should prompt reflection on whether joining the Raiders is the right path for his NFL development.

For the host of The Herd, the Indiana quarterback's talent is not in doubt, but the "toxic" environment he would enter is - specifically an offensive line that was disastrous last season and may not provide what he needs to fully develop. In fact, a situation of constant pressure could work against the NCAA champion.

Cowherd expressed concern about Mendoza's transition, as he would go from playing behind the best offensive line in college football to the worst in the NFL. "I'm not worried about Fernando Mendoza. I'm worried about the Raiders as his 'parents' in this league," the analyst stated, criticizing a front office he described as "ridiculously impatient" and impulsive.

The critical point of the analysis focused on the "pressure-to-sack rate." Cowherd noted that Mendoza shares similar statistics to Justin Fields when it comes to holding the ball too long, which generates negative plays.

"If you look at last year in the NFL, who had a very high pressure-to-sack rate: it was Geno Smith, J.J. McCarthy, Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward," he explained. If the Raiders do not improve protection - recalling that their quarterbacks suffered 64 sacks last year (11% of their pass attempts) - Mendoza could face a brutal rookie season, similar to the 68 sacks Caleb Williams endured in 2024.

The urgent signings the Raiders must make

Fortunately for new head coach Klint Kubiak, the team has $91.52 million in cap space, one of the highest totals in the league following a disastrous season. This financial flexibility allows for an aggressive strategy to counter analysts' fears and build the perfect environment to return to the playoffs.

To solve the line's porosity, the name Braden Smith emerges as a priority. The Colts' right tackle would provide the dominant protection Mendoza urgently needs. At the same time, the arrival of Joe Flacco is being considered; at 41 years old, his signing would not seek longevity on the field, but rather serve as an invaluable mentoring asset, functioning almost as an extension of the coaching staff to guide the rookie.

Finally, to balance the roster, Riq Woolen could be the necessary talent addition in the secondary, surpassing current options such as Eric Stokes or Darien Porter.