HENDERSON, Nev. — The Las Vegas Raiders are taking the patient approach with the future of their franchise. Head coach Klint Kubiak announced Tuesday that veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins will enter training camp as the team’s starting quarterback, while No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza will continue his development behind the four-time Pro Bowler.
The decision aligns with the organization’s long-term plan to allow Mendoza time to grow before handing him the offense.
Cousins Earns the First-Team Job
Kubiak made it clear that Cousins has earned the opportunity to lead the offense when the Raiders take the practice field.
“When we go out to practice, Kirk Cousins is the starting quarterback,” Kubiak said. “He’s the guy, and he deserves it because he’s played really good football.”
While Cousins will begin camp atop the depth chart, Kubiak emphasized the competition is far from over.
“I want Fernando and Aidan O’Connell to push him.”
Competition Will Continue
Although Cousins received the majority of first-team reps throughout the offseason program, Kubiak indicated the quarterback rotation will remain fluid during camp.
“There’s going to be times where certain guys are with the second team, certain guys are with the third team, and the second guy is with the first team,” Kubiak explained.
That flexibility will allow the coaching staff to evaluate all three quarterbacks in different situations while continuing Mendoza’s development.
A Long-Term Development Plan
The decision reflects a philosophy Kubiak has consistently supported throughout his coaching career.
Rather than forcing a rookie quarterback into action immediately, Kubiak prefers allowing young passers to learn behind experienced veterans.
That vision was shared by general manager John Spytek and minority owner Tom Brady, both of whom supported signing Cousins after his release by the Atlanta Falcons earlier this offseason.
The Raiders believe the arrangement gives Mendoza the best opportunity to succeed over the long term.
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