Kirk Cousins Named Starting Quarterback for Raiders: MSMN News

In a significant development for the Las Vegas Raiders, veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins has been named the team's starting quarterback for the upcoming NFL season. This decision comes after a competitive training camp where Cousins outperformed 2026 No. 1 draft pick Fernando Mendoza, who had been expected to take the helm for the Raiders.

Cousins, who joined the Raiders in the offseason, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. His performance in the preseason games, combined with his ability to read defenses and make quick decisions, ultimately convinced the coaching staff to give him the nod over Mendoza. The young quarterback, despite his impressive college career, will now serve as a backup, gaining invaluable experience as he transitions to the professional level.

This decision is pivotal not only for the Raiders but also for Cousins, who is looking to revitalize his career after a challenging stint in recent seasons. The Raiders, who are aiming to improve upon last year’s performance, believe that Cousins can provide the stability needed at the quarterback position, which has been a point of contention for the team in previous seasons.

The Raiders, based in Las Vegas, are under pressure to deliver results this season, especially with a new coaching staff that is eager to make their mark. The dynamic between Cousins and Mendoza will be closely monitored, as fans and analysts alike speculate on how the rookie will adapt to being a backup and what this means for his future with the franchise.

Looking ahead, the Raiders’ upcoming games will be crucial as they set their sights on a successful season. Fans will be keen to see how Cousins leads the team and whether he can help the Raiders secure a playoff berth, a goal that has eluded them in recent years. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on the quarterback position and how the Raiders navigate their choices moving forward.

Source / Reference

This MSMN News article is an original rewrite for our readers.

Source: Japan Times

Reference link: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2026/09/03/more-sports/kirk-cousins-starter-raiders/