Kirk Cousins already projected to get benched by Raiders for Fernando Mendoza

Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins is in Las Vegas and getting ready for a season with the Las Vegas Raiders, and while he's largely predicted to start the season atop the depth chart, there are questions about how long he'll remain there with eventual franchise quarterback and rookie Fernando Mendoza waiting at the sidelines.

It could go either way. Depending on how long it takes for Mendoza to develop in the NFL, Cousins could be a starter for one week or the full season. So, when will Cousins step aside from Mendoza?

Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report thinks Cousins will be benched during the 2026 season.

Kirk Cousins could step aside sooner rather than later for Fernando Mendoza with the Raiders

On one hand, Knox points out that "the Raiders don't seem inclined to rush Mendoza onto the field before he is ready."

"Ideally, you don't want him to start from Day 1," Kubiak said, according to Rob Maaddi of the Associated Press. "You'd love him to be able to learn behind somebody."

Knox also notes that the Atlanta Falcons were 5-3 last season when they had Cousins start and could have come out of the season with a better record if they handed over the duties to him. So, he's absolutely still worthy of a starting role. But, "If the Raiders aren't in a position to make a run, however, they'll turn things over to Mendoza once they feel he is prepared to start," Knox says.

Mendoza is a Heisman Trophy winner and frankly the hope for the Raiders franchise going forward. They could want to try him out as soon as possible, but having a stellar quarterback like Cousins available may be too enticing to give up. That's why this could go either way.