By Daily Mail (U.S.) | Created at 2026-08-14 19:26:34 | Updated at 2026-08-14 22:32:29
4 hours ago
Fernando Mendoza has been told Kirk Cousins is still in the driving seat to be the Las Vegas Raiders' starting quarterback despite an encouraging NFL debut in front of Tom Brady.
Mendoza appeared in his first NFL preseason game as the Raiders lost 27-14 to the Arizona Cardinals. Raiders minority owner Brady was watching closely, being filmed on the sidelines before the game having been integral in the decision to select the former Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner with the No.1 pick in the NFL Draft.
While Mendoza's incredible final college season has fans clamoring to see him start, head coach Klint Kubiak is taking a patient approach with the 22-year-old.
Before drafting Mendoza, the Raiders signed veteran Kirk Cousins to a five-year, $172 million contract, which is structured as a one-year, fully guaranteed $20 million deal that gives a team option for future seasons.
In that context, Kubiak insisted Cousins entered training camp as the starting quarterback and, so far, nothing has changed that status.
Cousins started against the Cardinals and was 5-for-6 passing with 50 yards and a touchdown before Mendoza entered the game for his debut. Mendoza finished 10-for-16 passing with 97 yards, throwing his first career touchdown to fellow rookie Jack Bech.
Fernando Mendoza appeared in Las Vegas Raiders uniform for the first time in preseason
Mendoza threw his first NFL touchdown as he found Jack Bech in his first preseason game
Tom Brady was watching closely as the No.1 Draft pick played his first NFL preseason game
After the game, Kubiak provided a new update on the state of play at the quarterback position after seeing Mendoza in live action for the first time.
'Kirk's been getting the reps with the ones. I think he's had a solid training camp and it's his job to lose,' Kubiak said.
Asked about Mendoza's performance, he added: 'He led a good scoring drive.
'As far as getting and out of the huddle, commanding the group, getting the play calls down, I saw the same guy I see in practice. I saw an ascending player who's got to keep getting better.'
Despite the positive assessment from his head coach, Mendoza was far more critical when reflecting on his own performance.
'Unfortunately, I let my teammates down today,' Mendoza said. 'But it's a growing experience. I feel like we're all growing and it helped me show that I need to grow a lot.
'I'm definitely [watching the game film] after this,' he added. 'I have nothing else to do tonight.'
Cousins was also asked his thoughts on Mendoza and gave praise to the young quarterback taking the first steps in his NFL career.
'He did a great job,' Cousins said. 'He moved the football, he scored points, gave us a chance to score points and operated well.'
Kirk Cousins is still in possession of the Raiders' starting quarterback spot
Mendoza claimed he 'let his teammates down' in a harsh self-assessment after the game
Brady hailed the leadership qualities of Mendoza before he was picked by the Raiders. In the aftermath of his Heisman Trophy win, the former Patriots quarterback said on Fox: 'I love everything about his game. His leadership is what stands out. His relatability to his teammates. He's overcome a lot of things in his career.
'He's a Miami kid, went to Cal to Indiana, and then went to a program that hasn't won anything in forever. What he's done this season is so impressive.'
Mendoza has opened up on Brady's guidance since he was selected by Las Vegas. He told People last month: 'Tom's given me a lot of advice — and I like to sometimes keep it close to the vest. However, the one thing that he always says is that, hey, you're in your early 20s and making sure you do everything possible to be successful and, and to best serve your teammates and not let your teammates down.'
'Making sure you're making all those decisions to the North Star and to best serve your teammates and to become the best quarterback you can become in order to help the team.'
