Mendoza Learning Behind Cousins | Las Vegas Raiders News

The Raiders are betting big on rookie QB Fernando Mendoza, but for now, veteran Kirk Cousins will start the season—giving Mendoza a full year to learn without pressure. Backup duties? Not settled yet: while Mendoza was expected to back up Cousins, Coach Klint Kubiak says Aidan O’Connell is also in the mix, with three QBs ready to compete. O’Connell’s preseason performance and regular-season experience give him an edge, while Mendoza’s rough preseason stats suggest he needs more time. The coaching staff knows practice reps will dwindle as the season nears, so they’re prioritizing development behind the scenes. Fans want to see Mendoza play—but for now, he’s learning from the sidelines, with a potential role later if Cousins falters. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/5d2c788445187ed8