Amy Trask supports the Raiders plan to bench Fernando Mendoza
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 6, 2026, 2:00 PM
Last updated Sep 6, 2026

The Las Vegas Raiders opened the season with Kirk Cousins as the starting quarterback, leaving rookie Fernando Mendoza in a backup role. Former Raiders executive Amy Trask expressed support for the decision, noting the need to balance immediate performance with the long-term development of the team's top draft pick. According to Trask, head coach Klint Kubiak is prioritizing long-term success by allowing the rookie to learn before entering the starting lineup. The organization remains in a rebuilding phase and aims to avoid rushing Mendoza into play to preserve his confidence. While Mendoza is considered the quarterback of the future, the team maintains that he will sit behind the veteran for the time being. The coaching staff continues to focus on roster construction, including the utilization of a fullback, as they look to build toward contention in upcoming seasons.
- •Kirk Cousins serves as the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders.
- •Fernando Mendoza remains in a reserve role to focus on his development.
- •Amy Trask stated that the decision reflects a focus on long-term team success.
- •Klint Kubiak is implementing a strategy that prioritizes the rookie's future readiness.
- 2:00 PMYahoo Sports — Raiders News: Amy Trask thinks the Raiders made the right call on Mendoza
"Former Raiders executive Amy Trask gives her thoughts on the Raiders quarterback position
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