The Las Vegas Raiders’ top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, quarterback Fernando Mendoza, is set to wear No. 15 as he begins his professional career. However, securing the iconic number wasn’t entirely straightforward. The issue? Tom Flores, the Hall of Fame quarterback who made No. 15 synonymous with Raiders football, still holds a deep connection to the number.
Despite the significance of the number, Flores, who wore No. 15 for the Raiders from 1960 to 1966, gave his wholehearted approval for Mendoza to inherit it. The blessing comes as Mendoza looks to follow in Flores’ illustrious footsteps, bringing a sense of continuity to the legendary franchise.
The Flores Legacy and Mendoza’s Bright Future
Flores, who also coached the Raiders to a Super Bowl victory in 1981, emphasized how Mendoza’s talents made him the ideal successor to the number. Flores told the team’s official website, “He deserves my blessing. If he’s not the real deal, I don’t know what the hell I’m doing.” The praise came after Mendoza, a former Heisman Trophy winner, impressed the Raiders’ staff with his skills at the college level.
Known for his arm strength and playmaking abilities, Mendoza is considered a versatile quarterback who can perform on any stage. “He’s perfect,” Flores said, adding that Mendoza “can make every throw” and “does it all.” Flores’ comments suggest that the rookie is not just a player with potential, but someone who could immediately make an impact on the field.
Mendoza’s Gratitude and the Raider Tradition
When Mendoza received Flores’ blessing, he recognized the weight of the gesture, reflecting on the Raiders’ storied history. “It speaks to the testament of once a Raider, always a Raider,” Mendoza said. He also expressed his gratitude for the support from the Raiders’ alumni, emphasizing how special it was to be welcomed by someone of Flores’ stature. “I’m so blessed,” Mendoza added, visibly moved by the honor.
Now, with No. 15 firmly under his name, Mendoza’s journey as a Raider begins with high expectations. As the first overall pick, he arrives with the pressure of turning the Raiders back into Super Bowl contenders, a task that fans and the franchise alike hope he is ready to take on. Mendoza is slated to join the rest of the Raiders’ rookies for minicamp this Friday, where the real work begins.
Flores, who left an indelible mark on the Raiders’ history with over 11,000 passing yards and 92 touchdowns, remains an influential figure within the organization. His contributions as both a player and coach solidified his legacy, leading to his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2021. For Mendoza, wearing No. 15 isn’t just about the number—it’s about carrying the weight of history, responsibility, and the hope of a Super Bowl future.
The next chapter for Mendoza starts now. The Raiders’ future, it seems, is in good hands.
