Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza is now the favorite to win Offensive Rookie of the Year, according to oddsmakers, following the team's trade of veteran starter Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings. Mendoza's odds shifted from 20/1 to +300 on Tuesday at DraftKings Sportsbook after the deal, which clears the path for the Raiders' top overall draft pick to take over as the starting quarterback.
Mendoza has limited NFL experience, having appeared in only one regular-season game where he completed 75 percent of his passes for 48 yards in a Week 5 blowout loss to the New England Patriots. He now leads Cleveland Browns wide receiver Denzel Ward, who was previously the betting favorite and now sits at +500. Denver Broncos running back Jonah Coleman and Tennessee Titans receiver Carnell Tate are tied at +600, with Browns receiver KC Concepcion at +650.
The shift in betting favor also follows a significant drop for Arizona Cardinals running back Jeremiah Love, who was the +300 preseason favorite but has fallen to 70/1 after an injury sidelined him. Mendoza's college success, including a Heisman Trophy win and leading Indiana to a national championship in 2025 with 3,535 passing yards and 41 touchdowns, is cited as a factor in his rising odds.
Mendoza's first NFL start is anticipated this Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. The Vikings, meanwhile, acquired Cousins to address their offensive struggles, particularly after their 23-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills. The Seahawks have since moved from 3-point road favorites to 6.5-point favorites in anticipation of the matchup.
