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Raiders name 2026 roster, Kirk Cousins to start

8/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Las Vegas Raiders announced their 53-man roster for the 2026 season.
Quarterback Kirk Cousins will start over No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza.
Klint Kubiak was named the Raiders’ head coach for 2026.
Defensive end Keyron Crawford was placed on injured reserve without a designated-to-return tag, ending his season.
Tight end Carter Runyon was placed on injured reserve with a designated-to-return tag.

History

Historical Context

Because the NFL caps rosters at 55 players (48 active) and imposed a $188.2 million salary cap for the 2019 season, clubs must weigh veteran value against cost. The Las Vegas Raiders, following that precedent, cut their roster in 2026, starting veteran Kirk Cousins over rookie Fernando Mendoza and appointing Klint Kubiak as head coach.

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Story summary

The Las Vegas Raiders announced their 53-man roster for the 2026 season.
Quarterback Kirk Cousins will start over No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza.
Klint Kubiak was named the Raiders’ head coach for 2026.
Defensive end Keyron Crawford was placed on injured reserve without a designated-to-return tag, ending his season.
Tight end Carter Runyon was placed on injured reserve with a designated-to-return tag.

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