What happened: Coach Klint Kubiak settled the backup competition after the team's depth chart listed Mendoza second earlier this week. Kubiak also named Jackson Powers-Johnson the starting right guard ahead of Caleb Rogers, while saying he considers both players starters.

Why it matters: Mendoza will receive limited practice repetitions, making independent preparation central to his readiness if called upon. The decision follows the Raiders' Sept. 2 selection of Cousins as their Week 1 starter.

What to watch: Las Vegas opens Sept. 13, with Kubiak emphasizing that Mendoza must master the game plan, reads and progressions. [NFL.com](https://amp.nfl.com/news/raiders-name-kirk-cousins-starting-fernando-mendoza-officially-backup)