Raiders Patience With Mendoza | Las Vegas Raiders News

The Raiders are taking a bold, patient approach with their top draft pick, QB Mendoza, choosing to let him develop behind veteran Kirk Cousins instead of rushing him into the starting role. Despite a rough debut—including an interception returned for a touchdown—the team sees this as expected rookie growth. Coach Kubiak refuses to name a starter yet, emphasizing competition and keeping all options open. While Cousins remains the favorite to start Week One, the pressure could mount quickly if the team struggles. This strategy mirrors past successes like Mahomes and Rodgers, but in today’s NFL, where quick results and financial incentives push teams to play rookies sooner, the Raiders’ patience could pay off—or become a liability. 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/8918c2450fcb646f