Kirk Cousins, Fernando Mendoza make Raiders better at most important spot
The Raiders are looking to improve their quarterback situation with the addition of rookie Fernando Mendoza, the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Veteran Kirk Cousins will serve as a backup option while Mendoza develops, but his performance in recent seasons raises concerns. The team's success may hinge on how quickly Mendoza can adapt to the NFL level.
- ▪Fernando Mendoza is the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and a Heisman Trophy winner.
- ▪Kirk Cousins will start if Mendoza needs more time to develop.
- ▪Cousins' recent performance has been inconsistent, raising questions about the Raiders' quarterback situation.
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NFL Kirk Cousins, Fernando Mendoza make Raiders better at most important spot By Vincent Bonsignore Published May 31, 2026, 8:00 a.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The California Post on Google It’s a given that the keys to the Raiders’ offense will eventually be handed to Fernando Mendoza, the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and the Heisman Trophy winner and national champion from Indiana. The question is, will it be Week 1, Week 8 or next season? 3 Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza hopes to play early for the team, but if he needs more time, Kirk Cousins will be ready to start. Getty Images Veteran Kirk Cousins is the insurance policy in case the Raiders believe Mendoza needs some time to develop.
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