Las Vegas Raiders’ first overall pick, Fernando Mendoza, had a slight hiccup regarding his No. 15 heading into the draft. However, the man known for the number by the franchise has given his blessing to the quarterback of the future.
Flores’ Blessing: ‘He’s Perfect’
Tom Flores, ex-Raiders quarterback and coach, said about Mendoza donning No. 15 next season, ‘He deserves my blessing,’ according to the team’s official website. Flores added, ‘Because if he’s not the real deal, I don’t know what the hell I’m doing.’
The Raiders never formally retired Flores’ number. He wanted to make sure to let Mendoza know how much he wants him to wear the number Mendoza starred in for the Hoosiers.
‘He’s perfect,’ Flores said of the Heisman Trophy winner. ‘He can make every throw. He can make the plays. What can’t he do? He does it all. He’s fun to watch.’
Flores’ Raiders Legacy
Flores rocked No. 15 for the Raiders from 1960-66, throwing for over 11,000 yards and 92 touchdowns during that span. He also starred for the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs during his playing days.
After retiring, Flores went into coaching with his old Raiders squad and ended up leading them to two Super Bowl victories. Then, in 2021, Flores was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Mendoza’s Reaction
Mendoza was asked about Flores’ blessing to wear No. 15.
‘It speaks to the testament of once a Raider, always a Raider. Of how involved the alumni is. And I’m so blessed to be a part of this organization,’ Mendoza said.
‘I can’t thank [Flores] enough. I’m so blessed.’
Mendoza enters his NFL career with high expectations, not just being the No. 1 overall pick, but playing for a proud franchise.