Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak names Kirk Cousins as the team’s starting quarterback as the club begins training camp. Multiple reports say Cousins is set to lead the offense first during on-field practices, despite the Raiders selecting quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Kubiak’s message indicates the rookie will not immediately be handed control of the offense.
While Cousins is identified as the starter, the sources also frame the competition around how Mendoza’s development fits into the team’s plans. Yahoo Sports notes that Fernando Mendoza, along with quarterback Aidan O’Connell, is expected to push Cousins, suggesting ongoing competition and opportunities for the other quarterbacks during camp and the preseason. Another Yahoo report emphasizes that managing Mendoza’s progression and timing are key challenges for Kubiak as he enters his rookie head-coaching season.
Overall, the outlets agree that the starting QB role at camp belongs to Cousins, with Mendoza positioned as a future option rather than an immediate replacement.
