Kirk Cousins Named Raiders Starter as 2026 NFL Season Approaches
The Las Vegas Raiders have named veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins their starter for the opening game of the 2026 NFL season, ending a training-camp competition that also involved first overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza and Aidan O’Connell.
Veteran experience wins the competition
Head coach Klint Kubiak announced the decision after evaluating the three quarterbacks through training camp and preseason work. Cousins, entering his 15th NFL season, was signed by Las Vegas during the offseason and brought a long professional record to a quarterback room that also includes a highly regarded rookie.
According to the Raiders, Cousins completed 76.5 percent of his passes in two preseason appearances and threw one touchdown. NFL.com reported that his preseason production and overall camp performance helped him earn the opening assignment. The decision gives Las Vegas an experienced option for the first regular-season game.
Mendoza remains part of the long-term plan
Mendoza was selected No. 1 overall after winning the Heisman Trophy and leading Indiana to an undefeated national championship season. His placement behind Cousins does not remove him from the Raiders’ plans. Instead, it gives the rookie time to learn an NFL system while watching a veteran operate it.
The Raiders have emphasized development and competition throughout the offseason. Kubiak previously indicated that a young quarterback could benefit from learning behind an established player before taking on the full responsibility of an NFL offense.
What Cousins brings to Las Vegas
Cousins enters the season with 44,700 passing yards, 298 touchdown passes and 167 career starts. Those numbers give the Raiders a quarterback familiar with the demands of long seasons, complex defenses and late-game situations.
His partnership with offensive players will also be closely watched. Las Vegas has invested in building a younger roster, making the veteran quarterback’s ability to provide stability particularly important early in the season.
Why the decision matters
Starting Cousins also removes one major question from the Raiders’ Week 1 preparation. Mendoza can continue developing without the immediate pressure of opening as the first overall pick. That approach could change later if performance, injuries or team circumstances create a different opportunity.
For now, Las Vegas has chosen experience. The Raiders will open against Miami on September 13, giving Cousins an immediate test and giving Mendoza a chance to begin his NFL career from a learning position.
Hudson Tribune view
The quarterback decision illustrates how NFL teams balance present competitiveness with long-term development. For the Raiders, the clearest immediate priority is giving the offense its best chance to operate efficiently while allowing Mendoza to grow without unnecessary pressure.
Readers can follow continuing Sports coverage and American Football coverage from Hudson Tribune. Official roster information is available from Las Vegas Raiders and league coverage from NFL.com.
