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Fernando Mendoza Stars in State Farm Ad While Remaining Raiders Backup

The commercial raises his mainstream profile and could increase pressure to play him if Las Vegas’ results or Kirk Cousins’ form slip.

Image
Sep 13, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) exits the field after the game against the Miami Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.
An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Two men walking and talking in Las Vegas with the Eiffel Tower replica in the background, Image 2 shows A Las Vegas Raiders player in a black jersey with number 15 on it, Image 3 shows Football player Fernando Mendoza wearing a Raiders jersey with the number 15, holding a football and raising three fingers

Overview

  • State Farm released a commercial that shows Mendoza on the Las Vegas Strip doing comedic bits such as eating a cookie after brushing his teeth and yelling “Go fish” at a casino table.
  • Mendoza was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after winning the 2025 Heisman Trophy and leading Indiana to an undefeated national title.
  • The Raiders have him listed as the backup to veteran Kirk Cousins, who started the season and completed 70% of his passes with three touchdowns and two interceptions in the opener.
  • The ad amplifies Mendoza’s wholesome, marketable persona and broadens his public visibility beyond college football and the draft story.
  • If Cousins or the Raiders struggle, the combination of Mendoza’s college pedigree and new commercial profile could heighten calls to insert the rookie and attract more sponsorship opportunities.