Raiders Keep Kirk Cousins as Starting Quarterback
The veteran will remain the starter despite a three-game losing streak as the team shifts focus to upcoming games.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Football
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The Las Vegas Raiders are sticking with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins as the starter despite a three-game losing streak. Team leadership opted for his seasoned experience over rookie Fernando Mendoza, who recorded 48 passing yards in his limited appearance against the New England Patriots.
Why it matters
After a promising 3-0 start to the season, the team is looking to stabilize its offense through the experience of a 15-year veteran. The coaching staff and ownership are currently prioritizing proven consistency in reads over the development of their first-year player.
Quarterback Kirk Cousins has tallied 1,582 passing yards and 14 touchdowns with five interceptions this season. The Raiders are currently navigating a three-game slide after starting the year at 3-0.
The players
Kirk Cousins
The veteran quarterback with 15 years of professional experience has been retained as the Raiders' starter.
Fernando Mendoza
The rookie quarterback playing in his first professional season recently recorded 48 passing yards.
Klint Kubiak
The head coach of the Raiders is responsible for the team's quarterback and personnel decisions.
Mark Davis
The owner of the Raiders has delegated football decision-making authority to the coaching staff.
The details
Team owner Mark Davis has delegated football operations to head coach Klint Kubiak, who maintains that Cousins provides better execution on first, second, and third reads. This decision keeps the veteran under center following Mendoza's 48-yard performance against the New England Patriots. The team will look to reset its offensive production after recent losses to the Chiefs, Bills, and Patriots.
Timeline
2026 season marks the first year for rookie Fernando Mendoza.
Beyond the Strip
This move aligns with the franchise's historical reliance on veteran quarterback play to manage high-pressure situations. It follows a pattern of prioritizing established signal-callers during mid-season slumps to protect team stability.
Fans heading to games should expect the same offensive personnel under center as the team attempts to break its three-game losing streak. Attendees at upcoming home games can monitor whether the offensive play-calling shifts to accommodate the veteran's style.
The takeaway
The team remains committed to the veteran's experience to navigate the current three-game losing skid. Watch the upcoming game-day rosters to see if the team makes additional adjustments to the supporting offensive lineup.
Further reading
For more on the team's season trajectory, visit Football.
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Should your local team stick with veteran players during a losing streak?
