Raiders Reportedly Eyeing Kirk Cousins to Mentor Top Draft Pick

The Las Vegas Raiders are reportedly interested in signing veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to help develop their presumptive No. 1 overall pick, Fernando Mendoza.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 9:49pm

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With the Las Vegas Raiders set to select Fernando Mendoza with the top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, the team is reportedly looking to sign veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to serve as a mentor for the young signal-caller. The Raiders recently traded away Geno Smith, leaving them without an experienced QB to guide Mendoza, and many see Cousins as a good fit given his own playing style and personality.

Why it matters

The Raiders are looking to surround their potential franchise quarterback Mendoza with as much veteran leadership and experience as possible. Signing Cousins could provide valuable guidance and mentorship, though some question whether Cousins' own recent struggles would make him the ideal mentor.

The details

The Raiders have already made a big splash in free agency by signing Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum to a record-breaking contract. They also cleared the way for Mendoza to start training camp as the unquestioned starter by trading Geno Smith to the Jets. Now, according to reports, the team is interested in bringing in former Pro Bowler Kirk Cousins to serve as a veteran presence in the quarterback room and help develop Mendoza.

  • The Raiders are preparing for the upcoming NFL Draft, where they hold the No. 1 overall pick.
  • The Atlanta Falcons released Cousins earlier this week, making him a free agent.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The presumptive No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, who the Raiders are expected to select to be their franchise quarterback.

Kirk Cousins

A former Pro Bowl quarterback who was recently released by the Atlanta Falcons after a disappointing two-year tenure.

Tyler Linderbaum

A Pro Bowl center who the Raiders signed to the largest contract for a center in NFL history this offseason.

Geno Smith

The Raiders' previous starting quarterback, who they traded to the Jets, clearing the way for Mendoza to take over as the starter.

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What’s next

The Raiders will need to determine if Cousins is the right veteran presence to help develop Mendoza, or if they would be better off pursuing other options.

The takeaway

The Raiders are clearly committed to surrounding their potential franchise quarterback Mendoza with as much talent and experience as possible, even if it means bringing in a veteran like Cousins who has had his own recent struggles. The team is prioritizing Mendoza's development over immediate on-field success.