Raiders' Kirk Cousins remains starter as Fernando Mendoza develops slowly
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 6:13 AM
Last updated Jul 30, 2026
Kirk Cousins is set to begin the 2026 NFL season as the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders, who are opting to develop first-round pick Fernando Mendoza gradually. ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky emphasizes that Mendoza may not yet be ready for an NFL-style offense, suggesting he should only play if necessary. Mendoza, who formerly played for the Indiana Hoosiers, posted strong college statistics, including 32 touchdowns last season. Despite concerns about his readiness, teammate Nakobe Dean expressed confidence in Mendoza's leadership and positive energy.
- •Kirk Cousins is the Raiders' starting QB at the start of the 2026 season.
- •Fernando Mendoza is the team's No. 1 pick, being developed slowly.
- •Dan Orlovsky advises delaying Mendoza's debut until he is fully prepared.
- •Mendoza recorded 32 touchdowns and an 87.9 PFF grade in college.
- •Teammate Nakobe Dean praised Mendoza's positive presence in the locker room.
- 6:13 AMYahoo Sports — Raiders Draw Scathing Response After Kirk Cousins Decision
- 6:29 AMYahoo Sports — Raiders’ Fernando Mendoza Receives Blunt Reality Check
"The Las Vegas Raiders decided to name Kirk Cousins their starting QB right out of the gate with training camp underway. Moreover, it means the Silver and Black will have No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza learn on the sidelines and bring him along slowly.Las Vegas likely doesn’t want to overwhelm Mendoza and throw the […] The post Raiders Draw Scathing Response After Kirk Cousins Decision appeared first on HEAVY.
"Kirk Cousins is the Las Vegas Raiders‘ starting QB for right now, and it will likely stay that way for the early part of the 2026 NFL season. Nonetheless, the question will be when the Silver and Black will turn to No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza. Las Vegas seems keen on bringing Mendoza along slowly […] The post Raiders’ Fernando Mendoza Receives Blunt Reality Check appeared first on HEAVY.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 30, 2026, 6:13 AMRaiders Draw Scathing Response After Kirk Cousins Decision
The Las Vegas Raiders decided to name Kirk Cousins their starting QB right out of the gate with training camp underway. Moreover, it means the Silver and Black will have No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza learn on the sidelines and bring him along slowly.Las Vegas likely doesn’t want to overwhelm Mendoza and throw the […] The post Raiders Draw Scathing Response After Kirk Cousins Decision appeared first on HEAVY.
- Yahoo SportsJul 29, 2026, 6:29 AMRaiders’ Fernando Mendoza Receives Blunt Reality Check
Kirk Cousins is the Las Vegas Raiders‘ starting QB for right now, and it will likely stay that way for the early part of the 2026 NFL season. Nonetheless, the question will be when the Silver and Black will turn to No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza. Las Vegas seems keen on bringing Mendoza along slowly […] The post Raiders’ Fernando Mendoza Receives Blunt Reality Check appeared first on HEAVY.
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