Raiders make clear statement about their QB controversy

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Raiders make clear statement about their QB controversy

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Oct 26, 2026 4:23 PM ET

The Las Vegas Raiders have responded to talk about a quarterback controversy by trying to argue there isn’t one to begin with.

Raiders coach Klint Kubiak said in no uncertain terms Monday that Kirk Cousins will remain his starting quarterback, and that there is no controversy to speak of. No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza “is going to play at some point,” according to Kubiak, but not just yet.

Kubiak: "Fernando Mendoza is going to play at some point, but it’s not going to be this week."
— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) October 26, 2026

The questions about a potential quarterback change are reasonable. Cousins himself fielded questions about it after losing his fourth straight start on Sunday, a 35-21 defeat at the hands of the Los Angeles Rams. The blame may be somewhat misplaced, however, as Cousins has thrown for 16 touchdowns and 1,877 yards with just five interceptions through seven games.

Much of the chatter comes from the desire to see Mendoza, who is the unquestioned quarterback of the future for the Raiders. Kubiak has hinted that he is progressing well behind closed doors, and fans are eager to see that for themselves.

Mendoza has seen limited action, but he has not been perfect when he has played. The Raiders’ problems likely go beyond the quarterback position, and a change would not really fix everything.

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