The Las Vegas Raiders officially turn to the Fernando Mendoza era. Week one starting quarterback Kirk Cousins is back with the Minnesota Vikings following Tuesday's trade. Yet this also ends the truncated relationship between the QBs.
Still, Mendoza became thankful for the veteran for pouring into him.
“I really, truly, from the bottom of my heart wanted to thank Kirk and the entire Cousins family. Whether it was Julie, Cooper, or Turner. They've as a family, done so much for me,” Mendoza began. “They've essentially taken me in to their household when they were here, and they welcomed me with open arms.”
Mendoza further shined a light on how welcoming Cousins became.
“It would have been really easy for Kirk, being a veteran quarterback and already proved everything, to be a little bit more dismissive. But he had me with open arms and has taught me so many things, whether it was film study, how to operate as a starting quarterback, all the different multifaceted approaches that have made him so successful throughout his career,” Mendoza said.
Mendoza concluded: “He has shared with no restrictions and no constraints. I really appreciate him and it was heartfelt to see him (go), as he was a great mentor.”
#Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza shared a statement thanking Kirk Cousins and his family:
“It would’ve been really easy for Kirk to be a little more dismissive. He had me with open arms and has taught me so many things. … He shared it with no restrictions or constraints.” 🥹 pic.twitter.com/rUhol5ChiB
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 11, 2026
Mendoza already held his first full practice as Raiders QB1 on Wednesday. He tells reporters he's grown more confident and “developed” as a quarterback. Largely due to leaning into Cousins and head coach Klint Kubiak.
The 2025 Heisman Trophy winner out of Indiana adds he'll miss Cousins. But knows he's not “gone forever.” Now Mendoza will lead the Raiders out against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.