LAS VEGAS — The Las Vegas Raiders’ decision to trade veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings may have accelerated the arrival of the Fernando Mendoza era, but according to a new report, the franchise was already preparing to make a change at quarterback.
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported that the Raiders were planning to elevate Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, into the starting lineup within the next few weeks, regardless of whether Cousins remained with the organization.
The original plan reportedly involved evaluating the team’s performances against the Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos before potentially naming Mendoza the starter for the November 29 matchup against the Cleveland Browns.
However, the Raiders ultimately decided not to wait. After trading Cousins to Minnesota in exchange for a 2027 third-round draft pick, Las Vegas officially handed the offense to Mendoza, who will make his first career NFL start Sunday against the defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks.
For a franchise searching for long-term stability at quarterback, the decision marks the beginning of a new chapter.
Raiders Originally Targeted Late November for Mendoza’s Debut
According to Rapoport, the Raiders had already developed a timeline for transitioning from Cousins to Mendoza. The rookie was expected to move up the depth chart within the coming weeks, with the November 29 game against Cleveland emerging as a potential starting point.
“If Las Vegas had lost Sunday to the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks and the Denver Broncos on Nov. 22, Mendoza would have started on Nov. 29 against the Cleveland Browns,” Rapoport reported.
The proposed timeline would have allowed Mendoza additional preparation before taking over the offense. It also would have given the Raiders an opportunity to evaluate Cousins through two difficult matchups before making a final decision.
ESPN’s Ryan McFadden previously reported that the team’s schedule played a significant role in its quarterback planning. By delaying Mendoza’s debut, Las Vegas could have avoided immediately placing the rookie against some of the NFL’s most formidable defensive units.
Instead, the organization elected to accelerate the transition after receiving an attractive trade offer from Minnesota.
Cousins’ Struggles Helped Accelerate the Decision
The Raiders entered the season hoping Cousins could provide veteran leadership while Mendoza adjusted to the professional game. However, the team’s recent struggles made maintaining that arrangement increasingly difficult.
Las Vegas has lost five of its last six games, creating additional pressure on the organization to evaluate its future. Cousins’ final appearance with the Raiders came during a disappointing 38-17 loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
The veteran completed 22 of 32 passes for 216 yards and one touchdown but threw three interceptions. The turnovers contributed to a difficult afternoon for the Raiders, who were unable to establish consistent offensive momentum.
While Cousins provided experience and leadership, the team’s declining results raised questions about whether continuing with the veteran was the best long-term approach.
When Minnesota offered a third-round draft pick, the Raiders faced an opportunity to acquire additional draft capital while moving forward with their rookie quarterback. Ultimately, the organization determined that the benefits of making the trade outweighed the advantages of waiting.
Mendoza Faces One of the NFL’s Toughest Defenses
Although the Raiders believe Mendoza is ready, his first assignment will be anything but easy. The Seahawks enter Sunday’s matchup with one of the league’s most effective pass defenses.
Seattle ranks first in passing yards allowed, surrendering just 155.1 yards per game. The Seahawks also rank third in opposing passer rating at 77.3, demonstrating their ability to limit quarterback efficiency.
Those numbers present a significant challenge for a rookie making his first NFL start. Mendoza will need to recognize defensive coverages, manage pressure and make quick decisions against a championship-caliber opponent.
Seattle’s ability to disrupt passing attacks could also force the Raiders to rely heavily on their running game and short passing concepts. For Mendoza, the key will be avoiding costly mistakes while allowing the offense to establish a manageable rhythm.
His performance may not immediately resemble that of an experienced starter, but the organization appears willing to accept the growing pains that accompany developing a young quarterback.
Ciryl Gane Survives Josh Hokit’s Relentless Pressure to Retain UFC Heavyweight Title at UFC 334
Welcome to Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!
Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
