Raiders Sign Veteran QB Cousins to Mentor Top Draft Pick Mendoza

Experienced signal-caller will help transition new franchise QB in Las Vegas

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:34am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the abstract movements and angles of a quarterback dropping back to pass, rendered in a palette of metallic grays, deep blues, and bold reds.The Raiders' acquisition of veteran QB Kirk Cousins signals a new era of transition and development for the franchise's future under center.Las Vegas Today

The Las Vegas Raiders have signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to a multi-year contract, with the expectation that he will mentor the team's top draft pick, Fernando Mendoza, who is expected to be selected with the first overall pick.

Why it matters

The Raiders are in a transitional period, with longtime starter Derek Carr departing in the offseason. Bringing in an experienced QB like Cousins to work with the young Mendoza is seen as a smart move to ensure a smooth handoff of the franchise quarterback duties.

The details

Cousins, a 12-year NFL veteran, will join the Raiders on a 3-year deal worth $75 million. He is expected to serve as a mentor and backup to Mendoza, the highly touted quarterback prospect out of a small college program who is projected to be the first overall selection in the upcoming draft.

  • Cousins' agent, Mike McCartney, announced the deal on Thursday, April 3, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for late April.

The players

Kirk Cousins

A 12-year NFL veteran quarterback who has spent the majority of his career with the Washington Commanders and Minnesota Vikings.

Fernando Mendoza

A top quarterback prospect expected to be selected with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders.

Mike McCartney

The agent for quarterback Kirk Cousins.

Derek Carr

The longtime starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders who departed the team in the offseason.

Las Vegas Raiders

The NFL franchise based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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What they’re saying

“Kirk Cousins is the perfect veteran presence to help guide our young franchise quarterback. His experience and leadership will be invaluable as Fernando Mendoza transitions to the NFL.”

— Mark Davis, Owner, Las Vegas Raiders

What’s next

The Raiders will hold a press conference on Monday, April 7th to formally introduce Cousins and discuss his role in mentoring Mendoza.

The takeaway

The Raiders' signing of Kirk Cousins demonstrates their commitment to developing their future franchise quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, through the guidance of an experienced veteran signal-caller.