Kirk Cousins addresses eventually ceding Raiders starting QB job to Fernando Mendoza

Las Vegas drafted the former Indiana QB first overall.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read

This is a really good answer. Via @AlbertBreer on X

What happened: Cousins fielded questions following Sunday's defeat on the eventual quarterback transition to the rookie. NFL reporter Albert Breer praised the veteran's remarks on the succession plan, calling it "a really good answer.

Why it matters: The timeline under center carries heightened urgency with Las Vegas sliding out of the playoff picture during a multi-game skid. Moving from the 2012 fourth-round pick out of Michigan State to the top selection of the 2026 NFL Draft would pivot the offense toward the club's long-term future.

By the numbers: Las Vegas sits at 3-3 (No. 10 seed) on a three-game losing streak following Sunday's 35-21 loss, with Cousins drafted 102nd overall in 2012 and Mendoza selected No. 1 overall in 2026.

What to watch: Las Vegas must decide whether to stick with Cousins or turn the starting job over to Mendoza heading into next week's game.

Sources

@AlbertBreer 2026-10-26T01:16:40.726219+00:00

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NFLAnalysisLas Vegas RaidersFernando MendozaKirk Cousins

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