Fernando Mendoza Reacts to Kirk Cousins’ Parting Message

Kirby Lee - IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Fernando Mendoza Reacts to Kirk Cousins’ Parting Message

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Nov 10, 2026 7:10 PM ET

Fernando Mendoza spent more than six months alongside Kirk Cousins in the Las Vegas Raiders’ quarterback room. Their union officially ended Tuesday as the Raiders traded Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for a 2027 third-round pick.

This move paves the way for Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, to take over the reins for the Raiders. The team already announced that the reigning Heisman Trophy winner will take over as QB1, starting with their Week 10 matchup against the defending champions Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.

Cousins took to social media shortly after the trade was announced. The veteran sent a parting message to both the Raiders and his younger counterpart.

“Thank you Raider Nation! Go get em @fernandomendoza,” Cousins posted in an Instagram story.

Kirk Cousins offers his goodbyes to the Raiders and support for Fernando Mendoza on his way out via Instagram. pic.twitter.com/sX8mMJqgOd
— Sam Warren (@samwarren83) November 10, 2026

Mendoza reacted to Cousins’ parting message by sharing the post in his own Instagram story. The young QB responded with just two emojis.

“ @kirkcousins,” he wrote.

Cousins returns to Minnesota for his second stint with the team. He was the Vikings’ starting quarterback from 2018 through 2023, during which he earned three Pro Bowl selections. The 38-year-old reunites with wide receiver Justin Jefferson.

Meanwhile, the Raiders have officially passed the torch to Mendoza after nine games. The former Indiana star has made just one appearance in his rookie year thus far. He took the field in Week 5 as Las Vegas suffered a 45-17 defeat against the New England Patriots.

In that game, Mendoza completed 6 of 8 passes for 48 yards.

The 23-year-old finally gets his chance following Cousins’ departure. He gets a tough test in his first start as the 4-5 Raiders host the 5-4 Seahawks on Sunday. Kickoff from Allegiant Stadium is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. ET on CBS.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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