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Kirk Cousins Set to Start After QBs Competition Opens

8/26/2026

31 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Kubiak Opens Competition

Head coach Klint Kubiak said the quarterback competition remains open.
Mendoza threw an 80-yard pick-six and was sacked for an 11-yard loss versus the Texans.
Kubiak warned players they must never become comfortable.
Kubiak said coaches will develop Mendoza with extra reps, technology and long-hour work.
Veteran Kirk Cousins is slated to start after the Raiders posted a league-worst 14.2 points per game last season.

Summary

Jeanty Out

Coaches may sign veteran free-agent Raheem Mostert if Jeanty misses the season opener.
Medical staff said a sprained ankle heals in 1-6 weeks.
A high-ankle sprain could sideline Jeanty three to four games.
Mike Washington will join Dylan Laube and Dare Ogunbowale in a three-back rotation during Jeanty’s absence.
Team members knelt and prayed on the field after Jeanty’s ankle injury.

History

Historical Context

In 1994 the NFL expanded by adding the Jacksonville Jaguars as its 30th franchise, marking a period of league growth and new quarterback opportunities. Today the Las Vegas Raiders weigh rookie J.J. Mendoza against veteran Kirk Cousins while eyeing running back Raheem Mostert, a decision echoing past expansion-era roster experiments that shaped team identities.

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Kubiak Opens Competition

Head coach Klint Kubiak said the quarterback competition remains open.
Mendoza threw an 80-yard pick-six and was sacked for an 11-yard loss versus the Texans.
Kubiak warned players they must never become comfortable.
Kubiak said coaches will develop Mendoza with extra reps, technology and long-hour work.
Veteran Kirk Cousins is slated to start after the Raiders posted a league-worst 14.2 points per game last season.

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