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Texans-Raiders Joint Practice Sets Up Stroud’s Preseason Debut

8/19/2026

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Summary

Mendoza Praised

The Houston Texans and Las Vegas Raiders practiced together in Houston on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza was 10-of-16 for 97 yards and a touchdown against Arizona.
Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud said Mendoza will succeed if he stays true, puts God first, and receives coaching.
The teams meet Thursday at 7:30 PM CT in a preseason game, giving Stroud his first preseason snaps.

Summary

Cousins Signs

The Raiders signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins in free agency to add flexibility to the quarterback room.
Cousins told Jeff Howe he accepts his role and wants to help the Raiders win.
Both teams called the joint practice the most intense camp session, while the Raiders’ new offensive scheme under a new coach adds adjustment challenges for Mendoza and Cousins.

History

Historical Context

In October 1999 NFL owners voted unanimously to grant Houston the league’s 32nd franchise, paving the way for the 2002 expansion draft on February 18 that stocked the new Texans with 19 players and a 4-12 inaugural season under Dom Capers. The franchise’s collaborative roster building resurfaces in the 2026 joint preseason practice with the Raiders, featuring quarterbacks C.J. Stroud, Fernando Mendoza and Kirk Cousins.

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Mendoza Praised

The Houston Texans and Las Vegas Raiders practiced together in Houston on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza was 10-of-16 for 97 yards and a touchdown against Arizona.
Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud said Mendoza will succeed if he stays true, puts God first, and receives coaching.
The teams meet Thursday at 7:30 PM CT in a preseason game, giving Stroud his first preseason snaps.

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