The Las Vegas Raiders officially named Kirk Cousins the Week 1 starting quarterback in a move announced Wednesday, with rookie Fernando Mendoza slated to begin his NFL career as the backup.
The team also revealed that rookie defensive end Keyron Crawford will miss the entire 2026 season after suffering an Achilles injury during the preseason finale against the San Francisco 49ers on August 27.
Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak confirmed Cousins as the starter following a competitive training camp and preseason. Kubiak stated that Cousins had earned the role through his performance, noting the veteran’s strong offseason and camp. Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, will now focus on development behind Cousins.
Raiders general manager John Spytek emphasized the organization’s commitment to long-term growth, citing examples of successful veteran-led quarterback development such as Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Patrick Mahomes, and Jordan Love. Spytek described Mendoza as a high-character player with strong work ethic but stressed that the rookie must continue earning his opportunity.
Crawford’s Injury and Impact
Crawford, a third-round pick from Auburn, suffered the season-ending injury in the Raiders’ final preseason game. The team did not provide a projected return timeline. Crawford, who earned third-team All-SEC honors in 2025, had expressed his goal of bringing relentless energy to the Raiders’ defense this season.
Quarterback Decision Rationale
Kubiak framed the decision as a reflection of readiness, stating that Cousins had performed well in camp and preseason. The coach avoided committing to Mendoza’s future playing time, redirecting focus to the Week 1 matchup against the Miami Dolphins. Spytek reiterated that Mendoza’s development would be prioritized, comparing his situation to historical examples of quarterbacks who thrived after sitting behind veterans.
Cousins’ Background and Role
Cousins, 38, brings extensive experience as a four-time Pro Bowler and former NFL leader in completion percentage (69.8% in 2015). Kubiak previously worked with Cousins as the Vikings’ quarterbacks coach (2019–2020) and offensive coordinator (2021), where he helped guide Cousins to two Pro Bowl seasons. The Raiders’ decision to name him starter follows two challenging seasons in Atlanta, where he posted a 15–17 record.
Team Context and Long-Term Outlook
The Raiders enter the 2026 season under first-year head coach Kubiak, emphasizing a blend of veteran leadership and youth. The roster includes emerging talents such as running back Ashton Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers, alongside Mendoza, who the team views as a long-term franchise quarterback. The organization has not ruled out Mendoza seeing game action, though no timeline was provided.
The Raiders will open the season at home against the Miami Dolphins on September 13.