Kirk Cousins addresses quarterback competition amid Raiders' struggles
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 26, 2026, 3:31 AM
Last updated Oct 26, 2026
Kirk Cousins spoke to reporters after the Raiders' 35-21 loss to the Ras, addressing the potential for rookie Fernando Mendoza to take over as starting quarterback. Cousins emphasized he wants to ensure the team has the best chance to win and that if he is not the best option, he does not want to play. The Raiders began the season winning three straight games but have now lost four consecutive games, prompting discussions about making a change at quarterback. Cousins acknowledged Mendoza's progress and expressed his support as the organization considers their options moving forward.
- •Cousins discussed his readiness to step aside if necessary.
- •The Raiders won their first three games but lost four straight.
- •Mendoza, a first-round pick, may be considered for playing time.
- •Cousins aims to be a role model for the rookie quarterback.
- 3:31 AMYahoo Sports — Kirk Cousins sends clear ‘don’t want to be out’ message to Raiders as major QB pressure builds
- 2:12 AMYahoo Sports — Kirk Cousins: "If I'm not the best option, I don't want to be out there"
"Kirk Cousins has made his stance clear on the possibility of losing his starting job with the Las Vegas Raiders, insisting he does not want to be on the field if he is no longer the team’s best option. The veteran quarterback’s comments come as pressure builds on head coach Klint Kubiak to consider rookie Fernando Mendoza following the Raiders’ fourth consecutive defeat.
"As the Raiders were rattling off three straight wins to start the season, the decision to ride with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins was looking like the right way to go.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsOct 26, 2026, 3:31 AMKirk Cousins sends clear ‘don’t want to be out’ message to Raiders as major QB pressure builds
Kirk Cousins has made his stance clear on the possibility of losing his starting job with the Las Vegas Raiders, insisting he does not want to be on the field if he is no longer the team’s best option. The veteran quarterback’s comments come as pressure builds on head coach Klint Kubiak to consider rookie Fernando Mendoza following the Raiders’ fourth consecutive defeat.
- Yahoo SportsOct 26, 2026, 2:12 AMKirk Cousins: "If I'm not the best option, I don't want to be out there"
As the Raiders were rattling off three straight wins to start the season, the decision to ride with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins was looking like the right way to go.
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