Overview
- Reports on Saturday say the Raiders will name veteran Kirk Cousins their Week 1 starter, a decision reported by multiple national outlets.
- No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza is expected to begin the season as a backup after inconsistent preseason play and coaching evaluations.
- Coach Klint Kubiak told reporters that Mendoza "needs another three preseason games," signaling the staff wants more development reps before starting him.
- Analysts cited preseason data showing Mendoza faced heavy pressure, threw two interceptions and completed roughly half his passes, which influenced the cautious plan.
- The team is still sorting the depth chart, with Aidan O'Connell under serious consideration for the No. 2 role and the staff framing the choice as a balance of short‑term stability and long‑term development.