Raiders Legend Tom Flores Passes Torch to Rookie QB Fernando Mendoza
Las Vegas, NV — In a gesture that transcends the generational divide of the franchise, Raiders Hall of Famer Tom Flores has officially granted rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza permission to wear the iconic number 15 jersey. Flores, the first quarterback in Raiders history, made the decision after Mendoza expressed concern about whether he had truly earned the right to don the number.
Tom Flores: "He deserves my blessing. Because if he's not the real deal, I don't know what the hell I'm doing."
Flores, who also served as the team's head coach, offered high praise for the No. 1 overall pick, stating that Mendoza "can make every throw" and "can make the plays."
Mendoza, visibly moved by the endorsement, acknowledged the weight of the honor.
Fernando Mendoza: "He's more handsome than me. But, it speaks to the testament of once a Raider, always a Raider. ... I haven't done anything in the NFL. So for him as an NFL legend, a Raider legend, for him to give me permission to wear the number 15 ... it's an eternal blessing."
Important Context:
The Raiders organization does not officially retire jersey numbers, leaving the legacy of the uniform in the hands of its legends. Mendoza was selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft, marking a new era for the franchise.