Raiders Name Kirk Cousins Starting Quarterback: What This Means for the Team’s Future

The Big News

Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak made it official on Tuesday: Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins will start training camp as the team’s QB1. This decision puts the 15-year NFL veteran ahead of Fernando Mendoza, the exciting rookie the Raiders selected with the first overall pick in this year’s draft.

Important Point: This isn’t a permanent decision—it’s the starting point for training camp. Kubiac made it clear that competition is welcome and expected.

Why This Decision Makes Sense

1. Cousins Earned It During the Offseason

• Signed in April after being released by the Atlanta Falcons
• Took majority of first-team reps during offseason practices
• Kubiak described his performance as "excellent"

2. A Proven Track Record Together

Best Season Together (2021): 4,221 yards, 33 TDs, 103.1 passer rating, Pro Bowl selection

3. Organizational Philosophy: Learn Before You Lead

This approach is shared by the entire leadership team:

• Head Coach Klint Kubiak
• General Manager John Spytek
• Minority Owner Tom Brady (yes, that Tom Brady!)

The belief: Young quarterbacks develop better by watching and learning behind a veteran rather than being thrown into the fire immediately.

What This Means for Fernando Mendoza

The Rookie’s Path

• Heisman Trophy winner with high expectations
• Will work with second and third-team units initially
• Aidan O’Connell (second-year QB) also in the mix

Kubiak’s Evaluation Criteria for Mendoza

It’s not just about stats. Kubiak wants to see:

1. How he handles adversity when things go wrong
2. Ability to correct mistakes quickly
3. Overall demeanor and leadership presence

Important Point: Kubiak said they "put a lot on his plate during the offseason" and expect a lot as real practices begin. This is a developmental plan, not a punishment.

The "Moving Target" Competition

Kubiak was clear: Rep distribution will change throughout camp.

• Some days: Mendoza with second team, O’Connell with third
• Other days: Roles flip
• Second-string QB might get first-team reps at times

Translation: Everyone stays on their toes. The depth chart is written in pencil, not ink.

By the Numbers: Kirk Cousins’ Career

Summary

The Raiders are taking a veteran-first, development-second approach at quarterback. Kirk Cousins starts camp as QB1 because:
He knows Kubiak’s system inside and out
He played exceptionally well this offseason
The organization believes in the "sit and learn" model for young QBs

Meanwhile, Fernando Mendoza gets a redshirt-like year to absorb the NFL game without the pressure of immediate starts. The competition remains open—Kubiak wants everyone pushing each other.

FAQ

Why didn’t the #1 overall pick start immediately?

A: The Raiders (and many NFL teams) believe rookie QBs develop better by learning behind a veteran first. It reduces pressure, allows them to learn the speed of the NFL game, and avoids bad habits from early struggles.

Is Kirk Cousins just a "bridge" quarterback?

A: Kubiak emphasized Cousins’ "value as a player… is the most important thing" and they brought him to "play really good football." While Mendoza is the future, Cousins isn’t just a placeholder—he’s expected to win games now.

What happens if Mendoza outplays Cousins in camp?

A: Kubiak said rep distribution is a "moving target." If Mendoza earns it, he’ll get more first-team reps. The door is open for the best player to play.

Where does Aidan O’Connell fit in?

A: He’s the third quarterback in the mix, also working with the second/third teams. He’ll compete for the backup role and push both quarterbacks above him.

How involved is Tom Brady in this decision?

A: As a minority owner, Brady shares the philosophy of developing young QBs behind veterans. His championship experience likely influenced the organizational strategy, but Kubiak makes the football decisions.

Article based on reporting by Ryan McFadden, ESPN NFL Nation Raiders reporter. Original publication: July 28, 2026.