Jul 29, 2026, 4:43 PM CUT

Fernando Mendoza faces an early setback after the Raiders' QB decision

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza answers questions from the media during the NFL, American Football Herren, USA Scouting Combine on February 27, 2026 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire NFL: FEB 27 Scouting Combine EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon2602270030

The Las Vegas Raiders have made their first big call of the 2026 season. The team decided to start training camp with a veteran running the offense instead of a Heisman winner.

Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak has named Kirk Cousins as the starting quarterback to begin the 2026 training camp. However, the coaching staff has made it clear that this is only the opening depth chart for training camp.

"When we go out to practice tomorrow, Kirk Cousins in the starting quarterback. He’s the guy, and he’s going to get a ton of reps. He deserves them because he’s played really good football. But I want Fernando and I want Aidan [O’Connell] to push him," Kubiak stated.

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 04: Atlanta quarterback Kirk Cousins 18 drops back to pass during the NFL, American Football Herren, USA game between the New Orleans Saints and the Atlanta Falcons on January 4th, 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire NFL: JAN 04 Saints at Falcons EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon260104135

According to Fox News, Kubiak entered his first season as head coach with this specific plan from the very beginning. Even though Cousins opens camp as the clear starter, nothing is actually decided for Week 1.

The preseason will be Mendoza's audition. Kubiak will decide the Week 1 starter based on camp and game performance

Mendoza entered the NFL with a lot of hype after winning the Heisman Trophy and leading Indiana to a national championship. Many expected him to start, making his placement behind Cousins a major talking point.

The Raiders trusted Cousins for this moment because of his track record. He brings the experience of 14 NFL seasons and has found great success working with Kubiak in Minnesota.

He signed with the Raiders shortly before the draft after leaving the Atlanta Falcons. His contract features a one-year guaranteed structure along with future team options.

The team believes Mendoza can benefit by learning behind an experienced veteran instead of being rushed.

Why the Raiders drafted Fernando Mendoza No. 1 overall

As noted by the Raiders' official website, Mendoza was selected No. 1 overall because of his remarkable college career. He led Indiana to a perfect 16-0 season and a national championship.

Along the way, he won the Heisman Trophy, the Maxwell Award, and was named the AP Player of the Year.

During his final college season, he posted a 72.0% completion percentage and threw for 3,535 passing yards. He also tossed 41 touchdowns compared to just six interceptions.

The quarterback competition in Las Vegas is still wide open. Kubiak has stated that every single position on the roster must be earned on the field. Mendoza and O'Connell are expected to continue pushing Cousins during every practice.

Minority owner Tom Brady has also shared his belief that Mendoza should earn the starting job rather than receive it automatically.

The team will play its first preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals. They will finish their preseason schedule with games against the Houston Texans and San Francisco 49ers.

After that, the regular-season opener against the Miami Dolphins will finally arrive. Who do you think will take the very first snap in Week 1?

Written by

Utsav Sinha

Edited by

Utsav Sinha