Kirk Cousins Joins Raiders, Impacting Fernando Mendoza's Draft Prospects
Tom Brady's Fernando Mendoza plans take a hit; Kirk Cousins likely to start for Raiders
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
The Las Vegas Raiders are set to draft Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza at No. 1 on April 23, but veteran Kirk Cousins has signed a contract with the team, potentially affecting Mendoza's rookie season. Head coach Klint Kubiak's connection with Cousins may lead to him starting, which could delay Mendoza's development.
- 01Kirk Cousins has signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, reuniting with head coach Klint Kubiak.
- 02Cousins' presence could hinder rookie Fernando Mendoza's chances of starting in his first season.
- 03Cousins has a solid career record, throwing for 44,700 yards and 298 touchdowns over 14 seasons.
- 04Mendoza is expected to be the Raiders' top draft pick in 2026.
- 05Kubiak prefers rookie quarterbacks to learn from veterans before starting.
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The Las Vegas Raiders are preparing to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming draft on April 23. However, the signing of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins could complicate Mendoza's immediate prospects. Cousins, who previously played under head coach Klint Kubiak with the Minnesota Vikings, is expected to start, potentially sidelining Mendoza during his rookie season. Kubiak has expressed a preference for rookies to learn from experienced players before taking the field. Cousins, 37, was released by the Atlanta Falcons after a challenging season, where he threw 18 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. Over his 14-year career, Cousins has completed 66.7% of his passes, accumulating 44,700 yards and 298 touchdowns. This development raises questions about Mendoza's readiness and the team's strategy moving forward.
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The Raiders' decision to start Cousins could limit Mendoza's playing time, affecting his development as a quarterback.
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