Kirk Cousins expected to start for Raiders amid Mendoza debate
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 19, 2026, 1:01 PM
Last updated Jul 19, 2026
The Las Vegas Raiders plan for Kirk Cousins to start as quarterback in the upcoming season while first overall pick Fernando Mendoza learns from the sidelines. NFL insider Ian Rapoport suggests this scenario depends on Cousins' performance and health throughout the season. If Mendoza performs better than Cousins in practice, the team may need to reconsider its plan. This situation raises questions about the effectiveness of the draft decision if the first pick cannot secure a starting role.
- •Kirk Cousins likely to start in week one for the Raiders
- •Fernando Mendoza, the first overall pick, may sit initially
- •Performance in training camp will influence starting role decisions
- •If Mendoza outperforms Cousins, a mid-season switch could occur
- •The Raiders seek immediate improvement following recent struggles
- 1:01 PMYahoo Sports — Raiders' Kirk Cousins plan 'isn't a guarantee' despite veteran status
"Kirk Cousins is to be the starter, and first overall pick Fernando Mendoza can just sit there and learn.
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