Kirk Cousins is the new quarterback of the Raiders. His agent, Mike McCartney, confirmed the information on social media, completely changing the landscape around the league in free agency just weeks before the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Raiders hold the No. 1 overall pick and are expected to select top Indiana prospect Fernando Mendoza. Cousins’ arrival ensures he will have a mentor in the quarterback room and that, if the rookie is not ready, the former Falcons player can start in Week 1 while trying to make the team a contender.
Klint Kubiak is the new head coach in Las Vegas for the 2026 season and already worked three years with Cousins when he was QB coach and offensive coordinator of the Minnesota Vikings. The top quarterback left on the market is no longer available.
Who will be Raiders starting QB in 2026?
Kirk Cousins would have the edge to be the Raiders’ starting quarterback in 2026, considering Fernando Mendoza may not be ready for the NFL immediately after his college football career.
Who will the Raiders draft with the No.1 overall pick?
Despite the arrival of Kirk Cousins, the Raiders are still expected to draft Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. This way, the franchise would have everything in place for a rebuilding process, with a veteran serving as a transition bridge and Mendoza as the future.
