"He's bringing that energy, and he's a passionate football player and everybody loves that."
Jeanty noted that Mendoza, despite being a rookie, can contribute to the offense.
"A rookie, but he did some special things in college," Jeanty said, "and he's going to continue to learn and help lead as well."
>>> Connecticut Sun Seek Second Straight Win Against Seattle Storm in Friday Rematch
This offseason marks Jeanty's first complete period to regulate his professional training schedule and dietary habits.
"Yeah, I'd say just my routine," Jeanty said.
"Obviously, rookie year, you don't really get a true offseason so, still, even this year, this is my, like, first real one.
So figuring out how I want my diet to be, what time I want to train."
Pro Football Focus data showed Jeanty forced 23 missed tackles and scored five receiving touchdowns last year, with most of his passing game production occurring from Week 9 onward.
NFL all-time leading rusher Emmitt Smith criticized how the Raiders managed Jeanty during his rookie season.
"Just like kryptonite is Superman's weakness, a poor offensive line can be a running back's weakness, especially if you have jail breaks," Smith told Heavy Sports.
"You talk about Ashton Jeanty coming out of college and doing the things that he did in college, but he went to the Raiders."
Smith emphasized that the Raiders have historically drafted Heisman Trophy winners without establishing necessary front-line protection.
"That's all I have to say, he went to the Raiders. And the Raiders get enamored with Heisman Trophies.
