Raiders name Kirk Cousins starting quarterback, Fernando Mendoza as backup
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 11, 2026, 10:40 AM
Last updated Aug 11, 2026
The Las Vegas Raiders announced their depth chart ahead of the preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals, listing veteran Kirk Cousins as the starting quarterback. Top draft pick Fernando Mendoza from Indiana is positioned as the backup. This approach diverges from the trend of starting first-round rookie quarterbacks, although some experts anticipate Mendoza will take over as starter by the end of the season. Mendoza described the quarterback dynamic as a cooperative effort rather than a traditional competition. The preseason game is set for Thursday.
- •Kirk Cousins is the starter for the Raiders' first preseason game.
- •Fernando Mendoza, selected first overall in 2026, is the backup.
- •Raiders will face the Arizona Cardinals in their preseason opener on Thursday.
- •Mendoza and Cousins emphasize a supportive quarterback relationship.
- •Experts expect Mendoza to start later in the season.
- 10:40 AMYahoo Sports — Raiders list Kirk Cousins as starting quarterback over Fernando Mendoza
"The Las Vegas Raiders chose Indiana Hoosiers star Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, when the team released its depth chart on Monday, Mendoza was not at the top. On Monday, the Raiders released their first depth chart of the offseason ahead of their preseason opener against…
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