Raiders HC Kubiak Hints at Veteran QB Mentor for Mendoza

Falcons insider believes Kubiak's comments are 'calling Kirk Cousins' name' as a possible veteran addition.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:06pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a quarterback in motion, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives, conveying the strategic considerations around developing a young NFL quarterback.A cubist interpretation of a quarterback's decision-making process, reflecting the complex dynamics at play as the Raiders weigh their options for mentoring their young signal-caller.Atlanta Today

New Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak praised rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza's physical tools and pedigree, but also emphasized the team's desire for him to learn from a veteran player initially rather than be thrown into the starting role. This has led a Falcons insider to speculate that the Raiders could be targeting a reunion between Kubiak and former Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins as that veteran mentor.

Why it matters

Bringing in an experienced quarterback like Cousins to mentor Mendoza would allow the Raiders to remain competitive in the tough AFC West while also giving their young signal-caller time to develop. Kubiak's familiarity with Cousins from their time together in Minnesota makes the veteran a logical fit.

The details

In his comments, Kubiak highlighted Mendoza's attributes as a 'national champion, winner, quick, and intelligent,' but also said 'ideally you don't want him to start from Day 1' and 'you'd love for him to be able to learn from somebody.' This phrasing caught the attention of a Falcons insider, who believes Kubiak is 'just calling Kirk Cousins' name' as a potential veteran addition.

  • On March 31, 2026, Raiders HC Klint Kubiak praised rookie QB Fernando Mendoza and discussed the team's desire for him to learn from a veteran player.

The players

Klint Kubiak

The new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings where he worked with veteran QB Kirk Cousins.

Fernando Mendoza

The Raiders' rookie quarterback, who was a national champion in college and is praised for his physical tools and intelligence.

Kirk Cousins

The veteran NFL quarterback who played under Kubiak's offensive system in Minnesota, where he had some of the best statistical seasons of his career.

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What they’re saying

“'He's a national champion, winner, he's quick, he's intelligent.'”

— Klint Kubiak, Raiders Head Coach

“'Ideally you don't want him to start from Day 1. You'd love for him to be able to learn from somebody.'”

— Klint Kubiak, Raiders Head Coach

“Kubiak's admission is 'just calling Kirk Cousins' name.'”

— Falcons Insider

What’s next

The Raiders will likely explore veteran quarterback options in the coming weeks and months, with Kirk Cousins being a logical target given his history with Kubiak.

The takeaway

The Raiders are taking a measured approach with their rookie QB Mendoza, wanting him to learn from an experienced veteran rather than be thrown into the starting role right away. Kubiak's comments have sparked speculation of a potential reunion with Kirk Cousins, who could provide valuable mentorship and familiarity with the offensive system.