What happened: Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak and general manager John Spytek addressed reporters in an afternoon press conference on Tuesday to discuss the state of the roster. Kubiak confirmed that the organization will not make changes to its defensive staff following Sunday's loss. The availability followed the franchise's trade sending quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings.
Why it matters: The decision to maintain staff stability comes after Las Vegas allowed 38 points in a road loss to San Francisco, dropping the team into ninth place in the AFC standings. Moving Cousins clears the way for rookie Fernando Mendoza to assume the starting role under center. Retaining defensive leadership provides continuity while the team transitions its offensive scheme around a new quarterback.
By the numbers: The Raiders sit at 4-5 through nine games in 2026, ranking ninth in the AFC standings following a 38-17 loss at San Francisco.
What to watch: Las Vegas prepares for Mendoza to make his first career start in an upcoming matchup against Seattle.