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Malik Benson Needs to Rekindle Connection With Fernando Mendoza
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- Malik Benson Needs to Rekindle Connection With Fernando Mendoza
In the early weeks of training camp, rookie Malik Benson was a star. He was routinely making highlight plays and worked his way up the depth chart, even challenging Jack Bech for the third wide receiver spot.
But Benson is no longer the darling of the offseason. After he failed to catch two passes in last week's preseason game, he and the rest of the wide receiver room drew criticism from Klint Kubiak.
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"We have to get a lot better, very fast," Kubiak said of his wide receivers last week. "We took a step backwards. Doesn't mean we can't go forward, but right now we are trying to find someone that is accountable and can help us on Sunday. Still looking."
The Raiders ended up releasing wide receiver Noah Brown after Kubiak's scathing comments. While Benson is unlikely to face Brown's fate, he needs to reestablish himself as a reliable option.
The Mendoza Connection
Aug 20, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) looks for an open receiver during the first quarter against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
One of the interesting parts of the Raiders' current quarterback situation is that the future starter is always taking snaps with the second-string offense. Kirk Cousins has dominated snaps with the starters, leaving Fernando Mendoza to work with receivers like Benson.
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Mendoza has constantly found Benson for big plays in camp. The pairing has been so strong, ESPN's Ryan McFadden once said Benson was the third-best receiver on the team. That has changed since Benson's struggles last week.
The Raiders could use a productive Benson this season, as the wide receiver room is fairly devoid of talent. But the real key for Benson is to become a reliable weapon for Mendoza in the future.
If Benson can keep making plays with Mendoza, the two could have a relationship that benefits the Raiders for years to come.
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Benson's Big Opportunity
While Kubiak hasn't stated if the offensive starters will play on Thursday against the 49ers, expect Benson to get plenty of snaps. It will be his last chance against an opposing team to earn playing time before the season starts.
Benson is the current fourth wide receiver on the team by default. Dont'e Thornton has missed multiple weeks with an injury and is unlikely to play on Thursday. With Brown's release, there is no other wide receiver pushing for playing time.
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The Raiders could look outside the organization as other teams trim their rosters down to 53. If Benson wants to ensure he stays in the running for playing time, he needs to impress Kubiak this week.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Aug 26, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
