Kirk Cousins starting season as Raiders' QB1 is best for Fernando Mendoza

On Wednesday, the Las Vegas Raiders officially named Kirk Cousins their starting quarterback for their season opener. 

And while some are questioning the decision, it makes sense to go with the veteran at the beginning of the season. It's also the best thing for Fernando Mendoza. 

Fernando Mendoza will have to wait to earn his first NFL start 

Even though Mendoza, who the Raiders drafted with the No. 1 overall pick in April, is being groomed as the future face of the franchise, there's no reason to throw him to the fire too soon. Some top draft picks are ready to start right away, especially when on a team willing to be patient as part of a rebuild. 

However, Mendoza's style of play and recent preseason struggles suggest time to sit and watch an experienced quarterback like Cousins run an offense could be beneficial. Mendoza finished his first preseason going 25-of-45 for 240 yards with one touchdown, two interceptions and enduring four sacks in three games. 

Mendoza struggled throughout the preseason 

He showed some flashes of why he won the Heisman Trophy and led Indiana to the program's first-ever national championship, but also looked like someone experiencing a much faster pace of play in the NFL apposed to college football. 

And beyond Mendoza's poor play in the preseason, everyone understands the reality of the situation. Cousins is there to help mentor the rookie and Mendoza is there to be groomed as the guy who will hopefully lead the once-proud Raiders back to the playoffs. 

Kirk Cousins understands the assignment in Las Vegas 

So without any controversy or confusion, the 38-year-old Cousins, a four-time Pro Bowler, can play and give the current members of the team their best chance to win in 2026, all while Mendoza learns and waits his turn. 

Also, in all reality, the Raiders are unlikely to win enough no matter how Cousins play, to delay the inevitable of Mendoza taking over the reigns at some point during the season. 

With Cousins under center, the Raiders will kickoff the 2026 campaign by welcoming the Miami Dolphins to Las Vegas at 4:25 p.m. ET.