Week 1 of the NFL Preseason showcased the first appearances of quarterbacks Fernando Mendoza and Ty Simpson, both first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. While neither is anticipated to start in the regular season, both players had promising outings. Simpson, playing for the Los Angeles Rams, delivered an impressive performance, completing 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns in his debut against the Kansas City Chiefs’ backups. In contrast, Mendoza, playing for the Las Vegas Raiders, completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and one touchdown in a loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel highlighted Simpson’s performance, stating he looked superior among rookie quarterbacks. The Rams may not utilize Simpson much during the regular season, as he is considered a developmental asset behind veteran Matthew Stafford.
Why It Matters
The performances of Mendoza and Simpson are significant as they reflect the future of their respective franchises. The Raiders are managing Mendoza’s transition to the NFL while relying on veteran Kirk Cousins to start. Simpson’s strong showing highlights the Rams’ strategy of investing in young talent to develop behind established starters, particularly as Stafford approaches the later stages of his career. The preseason serves as a critical evaluation period for teams, allowing them to assess new talent and refine rosters before the regular season begins.
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