Overview
- Current coverage shows Kirk Cousins as the likely Week 1 starter while the team keeps Fernando Mendoza working into the offense gradually.
- Coaches have staged Mendoza's on‑field reps so he develops under‑center mechanics and timing in live, padded work before taking extended game snaps.
- The Raiders are considering trading Aidan O’Connell to recoup draft value because he enters the final year of his rookie deal and carries modest 2026 salary and cap numbers.
- Undrafted rookie Jacob Clark is widely projected to be the odd man out in the quarterback room and a candidate for the practice squad.
- Final roster moves and any acceleration of Mendoza’s playing time will be decided by pads‑on training camp work, preseason game reps, and any in‑season injuries or performance shifts.