Raiders Waiting On Starting QB Decision

“I still don’t think we need to name anybody,” first-year head coach Klint Kubiak said (via ESPN’s Ryan McFadden) after Vegas’ final preseason game last night. “We have a lot to talk about at a lot of positions, so we want to watch the film and talk about everything as a staff.”

Cousins again saw limited action in yesterday’s loss to the 49ers before rookie Fernando Mendoza took over. The free agent addition also started Vegas’ first preseason game, and afterwards Kubiak confirmed Cousins was still in pole position to get the nod. The Raiders’ preseason finale included Cousins operating the offense effectively with Mendoza enduring growing pains. The No. 1 pick threw an interception and was sacked twice while completing seven of 14 pass attempts.

Kubiak remarked that Mendoza – like Vegas’ other rookies – “needs another three preseason games” to prepare for the coming campaign. That, coupled with the play of the Raiders’ top two passers, points further toward a stint on the sidelines to begin the Heisman winner’s career. Another factor influencing the Mendoza starting timeline will be the ability of the Raiders’ offense to “support him,” Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated writes. Improved play up front will be critical to Vegas’ overall efforts to improve on 2025’s showing, and a clean bill of health for running back Ashton Jeanty could go a long way in helping the team start well on offense.

Cousins signed with Kubiak and Co. long after it was clear Mendoza would hear his name called first overall during the draft. His tenure atop the depth chart is not expected to last long, but while it is unofficial at this point it is still presumed to include the Week 1 start.