The future of Raiders begins to take shape with a gesture loaded with symbolism. The legendary Tom Floresa member of the Hall of Fame and the first quarterback in franchise history, gave his approval for the rookie Fernando Mendoza wear number 15 in the NFL.
Tom Flores gives his blessing to Fernando Mendoza
At 89 years old, Tom Flores He did not hesitate to support the young quarterback after hearing that he was not sure he had “earned” the right to wear that number.
“You deserve my blessing“Flores said in an interview with Paul Gutiérrez, columnist for the Raiders’ official website. “Because if it’s not the real talent, then I don’t know what the hell I’m doing,” he added.
The historic coach of the Raiders He even widely praised the qualities of the new talent:
“It’s perfect. He can make all the throws. He can make the plays. What can’t you do? He does it all. It’s fun to watch him play“.
Fernando Mendoza assumes the legacy with respect
Far from taking it lightly, Fernando Mendoza He showed humility after being selected as the first world choice in the Draft and hearing Flores’ words.
“He is more handsome than me“He responded with humor, before delving into the meaning of the moment:
“I am very blessed to be a part of this organization. “I can’t thank him enough,” Gutiérrez compiled in his column.
The young quarterback also made it clear that his commitment will be total: “I haven’t done anything in the NFL. For a legend like him to allow me to wear number 15 and represent Raider Nation, the Silver and Black and him all in one, It is an eternal blessing. Every day I will have a commitment to excellence to live up to it.”
Although in Las Vegas Raiders They do not officially retire numbers, the number 15 has a special meaning within the franchise. Since Tom Flores used it in 1966, several players have carried it, including names like Jeff Hostetler, Gardner Minshew and Nelson Agholor.
Now it will be Fernando Mendoza whoever carries that responsibility in a new stage of the team.
A fact that connects past and present
When it debuts in the regular season, Fernando Mendoza will become the 11th Heisman Trophy winner to play for the Raidersjoining figures such as Jim Plunkett, Marcus Allen, Charles Woodson and Bo Jackson.
Latino impact on the NFL
The cultural context also adds relevance to the arrival of Fernando Mendoza. His link with legends like Tom Flores and Jim Plunkett reinforces the Latino presence in the NFL.
Plunkett highlighted the importance of this moment: “It is important for the Hispanic community. “I am very proud of Fernando.”
In addition, he recalled the long time since a Latin player was selected with the first make a choice of the Draft: “It’s been 55 years… I hope it doesn’t have to be another 55.“he added.
Expectation in Raider Nation
The fans of Raiders looks forward to seeing Fernando Mendoza in the field, now wearing a number loaded with tradition: “It’s a privilege that consumes my number“, he declared Tom Flores. “I would like to see him train“concluded the former quarterback.
Keep reading:
– Fernando Mendoza is chosen No. 1 in the Draft by the Raiders and makes history
– Fernando Mendoza’s week after the championship: TV presentations and a bobblehead
– A Cuban shines in New York: Fernando Mendoza wins the Heisman and speaks in Spanish
