Kirk Cousins explains how the Raiders should handle who starts at QB 

"If that's not me, I don't want to be out there," Cousins explained. 

"I don't think that's the best thing for the team. If I am the best option, then I believe it's important that those guys are out there.

"...But I'm excited to get the chance to lead, help influence in the locker room, do my part and most importantly, help our team win."

Cousins also made it clear that he's not trying to cause any problems and is fully aware of what he got himself into. Unlike when he signed a long term deal with the Atlanta Falcons ahead of the 2024 season and then felt blindsided after they drafted Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth pick in the draft, Cousins fully expects the Raiders to make Mendoza, fresh off leading the Indiana Hoosiers to the school's first-ever national title, their top pick. 

Cousins knows the plan is for Mendoza to be the future of the franchise. And Cousins is prepared to do everything he can to help mentor the reigning Heisman winner. But if Mendoza doesn't appear ready to play as a rookie, Cousins also hopes that Kubiak gives the veteran gunslinger one last opportunity to show what he can do as an NFL starter.  

Even though the Raiders are in the midst of a rebuild and may not care about their 2026 record, it's very possible Cousins would give them their best chance to win games. 

Cousins showed he can still play well enough to win in 2025 

In 10 games and eight starts with the Falcons in 2025, Cousins went 5-3 and threw for 1,721 yards while completing 61.7 percent of his passes. He tossed 10 touchdowns and five picks. 

The Falcons released Cousins in March after making their intentions known a month earlier. 

Cousins actually elevated his play from his first to his second season with the Falcons. He recorded 3,508 yards and threw 18 touchdowns with 16 interceptions in 2024. 

The veteran will offer Mendoza a nice example of what to do, both on and off the field, as an NFL quarterback. Cousins, a four-time Pro Bowler, has thrown for 44,700 yards with 298 touchdowns and 131 picks throughout his 14-year career.