Fernando Mendoza will take over as the Las Vegas Raiders' starting quarterback after Kirk Cousins was traded to the Minnesota Vikings for a 2027 third-round pick.On his way out, the four-time Pro Bowler extended his support for the 2026 first overall pick. Cousins posted an Instagram story of a photo featuring him and Mendoza side-by-side while wearing the iconic Raiders' silver and black uniforms. “Thank you Raider Nation! Go get em @fernandomendoza,” the caption said.

Last April, the Raiders signed Cousins to a five-year, $172 million contract. Weeks later, they made Mendoza the top overall pick in the 2026 draft. Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak dispelled any notion of a quarterback controversy when he declared Cousins as their starter.With Cousins leading the offense, the Raiders already have more wins (4) than their 2025 total (3). Likewise, the Raiders offense is also among the top ten in points and passing yards per game.Meanwhile, Mendoza made his only regular season appearance in the Raiders’ Week 5 loss to the New England Patriots. He completed six passes out of eight attempts for 48 yards. Mendoza will now lead the Raiders as they take on the Seattle Seahawks and the Denver Broncos, two of the league’s top defenses, in consecutive games.