Fernando Mendoza confident in winning Raiders QB1 job over Kirk Cousins
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 28, 2026, 1:55 PM
Last updated Jul 28, 2026
Fernando Mendoza, the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, expresses confidence in surpassing Kirk Cousins for the Las Vegas Raiders' starting quarterback position. Despite reports suggesting Cousins may start in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins, coach Klint Kubiak indicated a preference for Mendoza to learn behind a veteran. Mendoza, a standout at Indiana, posted impressive college statistics and seeks to prove himself in training camp. The Raiders' choice for starting quarterback will be made soon as preparations for the upcoming season continue.
- •Mendoza was drafted first overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
- •Coach Klint Kubiak prefers Mendoza to learn behind Cousins initially.
- •Mendoza had a standout college career with 41 touchdown passes.
- •Cousins signed a five-year contract potentially worth $172 million.
- 1:55 PMYahoo Sports — 'In the palm of my hand' :Ex-Indiana star Fernando Mendoza confident in winning Raiders QB1 battle
"Former Indiana Hoosiers star and 2026 NFL Draft first overall pick Fernando Mendoza is confident that he can beat out Kirk Cousins for the Raiders' starting quarterback position.
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