Story perspectives

Raiders Sign Kirk Cousins, Keep Rookie Mendoza Benched

8/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Las Vegas Raiders drafted quarterback Fernando Mendoza and signed Kirk Cousins, keeping Mendoza off the role.
Coach Klint Kubiak said Monday’s practice that Mendoza is improving but not yet perfect.
Part-owner Tom Brady urged Mendoza to sit until ready, with insiders describing him as football boss.
Dan Graziano reported Cousins will likely start Week 1 if healthy, after Thursday’s practice where he threw two deep touchdowns and Mendoza completed passes.

History

Historical Context

When the New England Patriots chose Tom Brady in the sixth round of the 2000 draft—199th overall—and kept him as a backup, he sparked a dynasty that won six Super Bowls and raised the franchise’s value by $1.5 billion by 2020. In 2024, part-owner Brady saw the Las Vegas Raiders mirror that approach by drafting rookie Fernando Mendoza and signing veteran Kirk Cousins.

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Story summary

The Las Vegas Raiders drafted quarterback Fernando Mendoza and signed Kirk Cousins, keeping Mendoza off the role.
Coach Klint Kubiak said Monday’s practice that Mendoza is improving but not yet perfect.
Part-owner Tom Brady urged Mendoza to sit until ready, with insiders describing him as football boss.
Dan Graziano reported Cousins will likely start Week 1 if healthy, after Thursday’s practice where he threw two deep touchdowns and Mendoza completed passes.

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