NFL3d ago
Mendoza Takes Over as Raiders Starting Quarterback
The 2026 top pick steps in after the team deals Cousins to Minnesota.
· 1 min read
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The Switch at Quarterback
The Raiders have turned to their 2026 first overall selection as the new starter. Fernando Mendoza will make his first career start on Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. The move came after the club traded Kirk Cousins to the Vikings. At 4-5 the team remains in position to chase a postseason spot and plans to prepare for the Seahawks the same way it has all season.
Mendoza's Development
Mendoza has impressed coaches with his preparation and growth on the practice field. His only prior action came in Week 5 when he completed 6 of 8 passes for 48 yards during a loss to the New England Patriots. Before that he won the Heisman Trophy at Indiana after throwing for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns while completing 72 percent of his attempts and posting a 90.3 QBR.
Cousins' Nine Starts
Cousins started nine games and threw for 2,340 yards with 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions. His final outing came in Week 9 against the San Francisco 49ers where he went 22 of 32 for 216 yards, two total touchdowns and three interceptions in a 38-17 defeat.
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