The Las Vegas Raiders will open the 2026 season with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins under center, while No. 1 overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza will begin his rookie campaign as the backup. Coach Klint Kubiak announced the decision Wednesday, ending a competition that also included Aidan O’Connell. Cousins will make his Raiders debut Sept. 13 against the Miami Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium.
The decision follows Kubiak’s stated preference to allow Mendoza to develop behind an experienced quarterback rather than immediately placing the rookie in the starting role. General manager John Spytek has also emphasized that Mendoza’s opportunity will come as he continues to develop and earn playing time. Mendoza had previously been listed behind Cousins on the Raiders’ initial depth chart.
Cousins, who is entering his 15th NFL season, was signed by Las Vegas in April after spending the previous two seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. He strengthened his case during the preseason, completing 13 of 17 passes for 101 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions in two appearances. “He played really good football,” Kubiak said. “I’m really happy with all three of our quarterbacks. Kirk’s had a really good offseason, very good camp and he’s earned it.”
Mendoza entered the NFL with considerable expectations after the Raiders selected him first overall following a standout season at Indiana. He won the Heisman Trophy and led the Hoosiers to an undefeated national championship season before making the jump to the NFL. His preseason performance was less consistent than Cousins’, however, as Mendoza completed 25 of 45 attempts for 240 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions across three games.
Cousins brings extensive NFL experience to a Raiders team entering a new era under Kubiak. He has made 167 career starts and has thrown for 44,700 yards and 298 touchdowns. For now, the Raiders will rely on that experience to begin the season while Mendoza watches and prepares for his eventual opportunity.
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