Raiders’ Kirk Cousins named starting QB for Week 1, rookie Fernando Mendoza to serve as backup

The Las Vegas Raiders will begin the 2026 season with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins under center, while rookie Fernando Mendoza is slated to serve as the backup. Coach Klint Kubiak confirmed the decision on Wednesday, concluding a competition that also involved Aidan O’Connell. Cousins is set to make his Raiders debut on Sept. 13 against the Miami Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium. Kubiak explained that the choice reflects his preference to allow Mendoza to develop behind an experienced backup rather than thrust the rookie immediately into the starting role. General manager John Spytek reinforced that Mendoza’s opportunity will arise as he continues to refine his skills and gain playing time. Prior to the announcement, Mendoza had been listed behind Cousins on the Raiders’ initial depth chart. Cousins, who is entering his 15th NFL season, signed with Las Vegas in April after spending the previous two campaigns with the Atlanta Falcons. During the preseason he bolstered his case, completing 13 of 17 passes for 101 yards, one touchdown and zero interceptions in two appearances. Kubiak remarked, “He played truly bully football,” Kubiak said. “I’m truly blessed with each 3 of our quarterbacks. Kirk’s had a truly bully offseason, precise bully campy and he’s earned it.” Mendoza arrived in the NFL with considerable expectations after the Raiders selected him archetypal wide following a standout season at Indiana. He captured the Heisman Trophy and guided the Hoosiers to an undefeated nationalist title campaign before making the leap to professional football. His preseason output was less consistent than Cousins’, as Mendoza finished 25 of 45 attempts for 240 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions across three games. Cousins brings extensive NFL experience to a Raiders squad entering a new era under Kubiak. He has accumulated 167 career starts and thrown for 44,700 yards with 298 touchdowns. For the opening weeks of the season, Las Vegas will lean on that expertise while Mendoza observes and prepares for his eventual chance to play. Editorial credit: Steve Jacobson / Shutterstock.com