Why Fernando Mendoza got Tuesday’s first-team reps over Kirk Cousins

Las Vegas Raiders’ number one overall pick, Fernando Mendoza, had a stellar preseason debut and secured a huge move towards his future. According to a report by Ian Rapoport, Mendoza got QB1 reps, though Kirk Cousins is still expected to be the starter.

From The Insiders on @NFLNetwork: Positive vibes out of the #Raiders with the development of QB Fernando Mendoza, even if it doesn't put him on the field immediately. pic.twitter.com/2R21BbuDIX

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 18, 2026

“First of all, my understanding is still Kirk Cousins to be the starter for the Las Vegas Raiders. That has been the plan throughout. They have announced it. They have been very clear. I don’t believe that has changed at all. But if you were wondering why Klint Kubiak and the Raiders organization wants to get Fernando Mendoza those snaps with the first team, I can’t explain it better than the number one overall pick did.

Rapoport continued, “ You gotta get in and out of the huddle. You gotta do it at the speed that is required with the starters, and yes, it is a little bit faster, just like games are a little bit faster than preseason games, just like those are a little bit faster than practices. There are different levels, and bringing Fernando Mendoza along the right way, Dan, means you have to elevate his game just a little bit.”

During the practice, Mendoza performed well, per Rapoport.

“It does sound, based on my understanding, like today was a really good day, made some good throws. Someone I spoke to who was watching said they noticed how well he does so many of the little things. It is all positive. This is a very good day for the Raiders because this guy will help. It just doesn’t seem like it is going to be right away in the 2026 season.”

During last Thursday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals, Mendoza went 10 of 16 for 97 yards and a touchdown through the air, adding six yards on the ground while also taking a sack. He shared the field with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who got the start and threw for 50 yards and a touchdown in the first quarter before giving way to Mendoza.

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