Story perspectives

Raiders sign Cousins, rookie Mendoza could debut later

5/16/2026

Summary

Mendoza Debuts

The Las Vegas Raiders could start rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza in his 2026 NFL debut, after signing veteran Kirk Cousins to start until Mendoza is ready.
Week 12 at the Cleveland Browns would be a tough debut against a top-five defense led by Myles Garrett.
Week 17 at the Arizona Cardinals offers a favorable debut versus a team that ranked 28th in sacks in 2025.

Summary

Kubiak Avoids

Klint Kubiak says he will avoid a rookie quarterback starting on Day 1.
National Football League (NFL) rule change now allows teams to start a rookie quarterback without a roster penalty.
Betting lines list veteran Kirk Cousins as the favorite to open the Raiders’ season.
The Raiders lack a primetime slot in the 2026 schedule, so the league will not feature Mendoza if he starts, reducing visibility for a rookie debut.

Summary

Cousins Mentors

Kirk Cousins told Taylor Rocha he will mentor rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
Cousins’ familiarity with Klint Kubiak’s offense gives him a training-camp edge, while Mendoza’s 73.4% completion rate on 2025 play-action passes fits that system.
The Raiders added center Tyler Linderbaum, upgraded the defense via draft and free agency, and count on a stronger running game anchored by Ashton Jeanty and fourth-round pick Mike Washington Jr. to aid Mendoza’s transition.

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Mendoza Debuts

The Las Vegas Raiders could start rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza in his 2026 NFL debut, after signing veteran Kirk Cousins to start until Mendoza is ready.
Week 12 at the Cleveland Browns would be a tough debut against a top-five defense led by Myles Garrett.
Week 17 at the Arizona Cardinals offers a favorable debut versus a team that ranked 28th in sacks in 2025.

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