Kirk Cousins expected to start for Raiders in Week 1 over Fernando Mendoza

The Las Vegas Raiders may be delaying their official announcement regarding their starting quarterback, but reports are making the expected outcome increasingly clear. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, there is a growing consensus within the organization and across the league that Kirk Cousins will secure the starting role for Week 1.

As the regular season opener approaches, the Raiders are preparing to rely on veteran leadership in their offense. CBS Sports national reporter Matt Zenitz confirmed on X that the Raiders are expected to name Cousins as their starting quarterback, citing sources. This decision firmly establishes Cousins as the primary quarterback over rookie Fernando Mendoza, providing head coach Klint Kubiak’s team with experienced stability at the position as they begin the 2026 campaign.

The #Raiders are expected to name Kirk Cousins as their starting quarterback, sources tell @CBSSports pic.twitter.com/U1DlIY9u19

— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) August 29, 2026

Choosing the seasoned four-time Pro Bowler over the developing rookie is a sensible strategy aimed at protecting Mendoza as he adjusts to the speed of the NFL. During Las Vegas’ exhibition finale against the San Francisco 49ers, Mendoza entered the game after Cousins played two series. He faced significant pressure behind a reconstructed offensive line, completing only seven of 14 passes for 51 yards and throwing an interception. Pro Football Focus ranks the Raiders’ offensive line 18th in the league. While newly signed center Tyler Linderbaum has improved their run blocking, the line is still working to improve its pass protection. Thus, putting a rookie in such a challenging situation carries substantial risks.

For Cousins, taking on this role is about setting a standard and executing his responsibilities with humility. In a statement on the team’s official YouTube channel, Cousins highlighted his mindset: “I think it’s just up to Coach. You do the best you can with the opportunities you’re given. Lead as well as you can. Compete. You’re never a finished product.” Allowing Mendoza the opportunity to observe and learn from Cousins positions the young quarterback for greater long-term success.

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