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League: NFLSport: FootballCountry: United StatesCategory: Breaking News

Raiders face pressure to adjust Fernando Mendoza plan as season unfolds

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 25, 2026, 1:00 PM

Last updated Jul 25, 2026

Raiders face pressure to adjust Fernando Mendoza plan as season unfolds
Summary

The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to stick with their development plan for rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza while veteran Kirk Cousins starts in Week 1. If the Raiders struggle early in the season, public pressure may mount to insert Mendoza into the lineup. Historically, teams have rushed quarterbacks, leading to mixed results. Cousins has a strong relationship with head coach Klint Kubiak, who may need to navigate ongoing team dynamics and expectations as the Raiders aim to improve from last season's 3-14 record.

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Latest Updates
  • •Kirk Cousins is set as the Week 1 starter.
  • •The Raiders aim to develop Mendoza behind the scenes.
  • •Pressure to play Mendoza may increase if the team loses.
  • •Last season, the Raiders finished with a 3-14 record.
  • •Coaching dynamics may influence decision-making this season.
Latest Updates
  • 1:00 PMYahoo Sports — Will the Raiders stick to the Fernando Mendoza plan if they're losing?
What they're saying
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Will the Las Vegas Raiders stick to the plan to bench rookie QB Fernando Mendoza even if they're losing?

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Las Vegas RaidersNFLFootball

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