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Analyst urges Raiders to start Fernando Mendoza over Kirk Cousins

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 27, 2026, 10:42 PM

Last updated Aug 27, 2026

Analyst urges Raiders to start Fernando Mendoza over Kirk Cousins

Summary

As the NFL preseason nears its conclusion, analyst Brady Quinn has advised the Raiders to start quarterback Fernando Mendoza instead of veteran Kirk Cousins for Week 1. Quinn praised Mendoza’s performance and emphasized the need for the team to begin his development immediately. The Raiders, coming off a dismal 3-14 season, drafted Mendoza with the first overall pick following his Heisman-winning college career. Meanwhile, Cousins will provide experience as the starting quarterback, but questions about his recent performance and injuries could prompt a quicker transition to Mendoza if necessary.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Brady Quinn believes Mendoza should start over Cousins.
•Mendoza was drafted first overall after a strong college career.
•The Raiders finished last season with a 3-14 record.
•Cousins is seen as a mentor for the young quarterback.
•Final roster decisions will be made by August 30.

Latest Updates

10:42 PMYahoo Sports — NFL Analyst Drops Bold Fernando Mendoza Advise to Raiders As Kirk Cousins Hold QB1 Spot

What they're saying

"
All the organizations in the NFL are having a make-or-break time for most of their NFL rosters. As we are approaching the last week of the preseason before cutdown day on August 30, most franchises have to come up with a decision. While most analysts and fans were excited to see Fernando Mendoza as the […] The post NFL Analyst Drops Bold Fernando Mendoza Advise to Raiders As Kirk Cousins Hold QB1 Spot appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
— Yahoo Sports

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