Raiders QB1 battle: Kirk Cousins favored as Fernando Mendoza enters the competition
The Las Vegas Raiders have not officially named their Week 1 starting quarterback. Veteran Kirk Cousins enters training camp as the most likely opening-day starter because of his experience and familiarity with head coach Klint Kubiak's offense. However, No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza has signed his rookie contract, reported to camp and is part of the competition. Mendoza has emphasized a collaborative approach inside the quarterback room, while the Raiders continue to evaluate Cousins, Mendoza and the rest of the position group. Cousins may hold the early advantage, but no official starter has been announced, leaving the Raiders' QB1 battle active.
Corroborating: Raiders.com confirmed Mendoza signed his rookie contract and reported for training camp: https://www.raiders.com/news/fernando-mendoza-enters-first-training-camp-ready-to-learn-listen-and-lean-into-the-grind | ESPN reported Cousins was the strongest Raiders quarterback during spring practices, while the team continued developing Mendoza: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/49041440/las-vegas-raiders-rookie-quarterback-fernando-mendoza-first-impressions-2026-otas
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