Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza is learning to operate from under center, a shift from the shotgun‑dominant system he used throughout his college career at Texas A&M‑Commerce. The adjustment became evident during the Raiders’ rookie minicamp, where Mendoza spent his first practice snaps taking the ball directly from the center.
Mendoza explained that the change requires “added footwork” and a focus on the initial two steps after the snap. “Instead of being back there in shotgun, you really have to get back to make sure you get depth,” he said. “You still have to be on time, still decipher the defense, and emphasize securing the snap, getting out quickly, and using quick, powerful footwork.” The quarterback credited head coach Klint Kubiak, offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko and quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan for stressing repetition and precision in the new stance.
The transition is being facilitated by offensive lineman Trey Zuhn, a third‑round selection from Texas A&M, who has been snapping the ball to Mendoza throughout the minicamp. Zuhn, capable of playing across the line, is expected to serve as a guard during the regular season while veteran free‑agent Tyler Linderbaum holds the starting center role. Although Zuhn also came from a college system that favored the shotgun, he noted the added center reps have been valuable: “We didn’t do very much under center at A&M, either, so it’s been great getting those extra reps.”
The shift from shotgun to under‑center is a common hurdle for many NFL rookies. College offenses often rely heavily on shotgun formations to simplify reads and protect the quarterback, while NFL teams continue to require quarterbacks to execute a mix of under‑center and shotgun snaps to broaden play‑calling options and manage the clock. For the Raiders, ensuring Mendoza can perform effectively from the traditional position is a priority as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Mendoza believes consistent practice will improve his speed, efficiency and decision‑making: “It’s going to be that repetition under center, getting those quicker feet, and just being faster and more efficient in your reads and decisiveness.” Coaching staff members agree that mastering the under‑center snap will expand Mendoza’s repertoire and aid the Raiders’ offensive versatility.
As the rookie minicamp concludes, the emphasis on footwork, snap timing and quick decision‑making signals the organization’s commitment to developing Mendoza into a dual‑threat quarterback capable of thriving in both shotgun and under‑center schemes. The progress made in these early sessions will shape the quarterback’s role in preseason preparations and, ultimately, the regular‑season roster.
