In a decision that had been widely anticipated since the draft, the Las Vegas Raiders officially named Kirk Cousins their starting quarterback for the 2026 season opener. Head coach Klint Kubiak made the announcement on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, ending weeks of speculation about the team's quarterback hierarchy. As the Raiders prepare to host the Miami Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium, Kubiak made it clear that Cousins' experience and performance throughout the offseason earned him the starting role.
Kubiak: 'Kirk's Earned It'
"He played really good football," Kubiak said via the team's official website. "I'm really happy with all three of our quarterbacks. Kirk's had a really good offseason, very good camp and he's earned it." Kubiak also praised Cousins' development as a leader, noting, "Where I've seen him grow is in his leadership and his command." The decision places Cousins ahead of No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza and third-year quarterback Aidan O'Connell, who will serve as backups.
Why Cousins Over Mendoza?
The Raiders' choice to start Cousins was long expected, despite the franchise selecting Mendoza with the first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Team brass, including co-owner Tom Brady, have consistently emphasized a patient approach to Mendoza's development. Kubiak acknowledged Brady's involvement in the decision, stating, "We lean on him for a lot of things. Talk to him multiple times a week. He's been extremely helpful for roster building, for schematics, for team building. He's been an extremely impressive resource." Mendoza's preseason struggles—completing 25 of 45 passes for 240 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions—highlighted the adjustment from college to the NFL. While he showed flashes, the speed of the game and complex defensive coverages proved challenging.
Comfort and Familiarity
Starting Cousins is also about comfort and familiarity. Cousins knows Kubiak well from their time together in Minnesota, where Kubiak served as quarterbacks coach (2019-2020) and offensive coordinator (2021) during Cousins' tenure as the Vikings' starter. The Raiders signed Cousins this offseason with the explicit intention of him serving as a bridge quarterback and mentor to Mendoza. This decision underscores that the organization is committed to that plan, prioritizing stability and veteran leadership for a team with playoff aspirations.
As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, the Raiders' quarterback situation will be closely monitored throughout the season. If Mendoza shows significant growth, he could push for playing time, but for now, Cousins gives the Raiders the best chance to win immediately. With Tom Brady's influence and Kubiak's trust in Cousins, Las Vegas appears confident in their direction as they open the season against a formidable Dolphins squad.
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