Full Breakdown
Raiders Name Kirk Cousins Starting Quarterback for Training Camp
7/29/2026, 9:43:52 PM
Core Event
Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak announced that veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins will be the starting quarterback when the team begins training camp, while first-overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza will begin the season as a developmental player. Kubiak said Cousins “deserves” the role because of his recent performance and will receive “a ton of reps.”
Rationale Behind the Veteran Starter Choice
The decision aligns with a strategy of protecting Mendoza while he acclimates to the NFL. Coaching staff members have emphasized that the Raiders’ offensive line was among the league’s weakest last season and that the receiving corps lacks a clear No. 1 target. Deploying a rookie quarterback in that environment could expose him to “growing pains” both on the field and in the new offensive scheme.
General manager John Spytek and Brady have supported bringing in Cousins after his release from the Atlanta Falcons.
Official Statements & Responses
- Kubiak explained that the depth-chart arrangement is fluid, indicating that Mendoza will receive periodic first-team reps as he develops.
Data & Statistics
Kirk Cousins enters his 15th NFL season. In his 2021 Pro Bowl year, he threw for 4,221 yards, 33 touchdowns, and posted a passer rating of 103.1 with a 66.3 % completion rate. Over his six-year stint with the Minnesota Vikings (2015-2021), he accumulated 12,089 passing yards, 94 touchdowns, and 26 interceptions, completing 67.6 % of his passes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Tom Brady knew that he wanted a veteran to start the season to take the pressure off Fernando Mendoza,” — Adam Schefter
- “When we go out to practice [on Wednesday], Kirk Cousins is the starting quarterback,” — Klint Kubiak, raiders head coach
- “I would say [Cousins'] value as a player on our team is the most important thing,” — Klint Kubiak, raiders head coach
- “We’ve put a lot on his plate in this offseason. We expect a lot out of him as these practices start coming,” — Klint Kubiak, raiders head coach
What’s Next
The Raiders will open preseason competition in mid-August against the Arizona Cardinals, after which the regular season begins in mid-September with a home game versus the Miami Dolphins. The coaching staff has indicated that Mendoza’s opportunities will be evaluated throughout camp and could expand if his performance merits a larger role.
