The Las Vegas Raiders still have no answer at quarterback, and Klint Kubiak is making sure nobody gets comfortable before the 2026 season begins. The Raiders entered the offseason with a fascinating QB situation.
On one side is Kirk Cousins, a proven veteran who signed a five-year, $172 million contract with Las Vegas. In reality, the deal functions as a one-year, fully guaranteed $20 million commitment with a club option covering two additional seasons at $80 million.
On the other side is Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and the quarterback many around the organization view as the future of the franchise. The expectation was that Cousins could help lead the transition while Mendoza develops at his own pace, but a strong season from the veteran could change those plans entirely.
Who will be Raiders’ starting quarterback in 2026 season?
Klint Kubiak still has not decided who will be the Raiders’ starting quarterback for the 2026 regular season. Following the preseason game against the Houston Texans, Kubiak made it clear that the competition remains open and that neither Cousins nor Mendoza should assume the job is theirs.
It’s a clear message from the head coach trying to keep the intensity. “We got another week. I don’t want anyone to be comfortable in their job. It should always be that way for all positions. So, let’s keep going.”
That is an intriguing stance with the regular season approaching. Cousins has the experience and the massive contract, while Mendoza represents the long-term investment at the most important position on the roster.
Kubiak’s decision to keep the competition alive could also be a sign that the Raiders are genuinely considering both possibilities rather than simply preparing Mendoza for a predetermined succession plan.
What’s Raiders’ QB depth chart?
The Raiders’ quarterback depth chart is expected to feature Kirk Cousins, Fernando Mendoza and Aidan O’Connell. There appears to be little doubt that O’Connell has secured his place on the roster after delivering a strong performance in Houston.
His preseason showing gave the Raiders another reason to keep him around as an experienced option behind the top two quarterbacks. The only scenario that could change those plans would be a late trade interest from another team.
