Raiders Sign Veteran QB Kirk Cousins

New coach Klint Kubiak brings in experienced signal-caller to mentor top draft pick

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:54am

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The Las Vegas Raiders have signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to a 2-year contract. The move comes as the team is expected to select highly-touted prospect Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, and Cousins will provide valuable experience and mentorship for the young quarterback.

Why it matters

The Raiders are in a transitional phase, with a new head coach in Klint Kubiak and a potential franchise quarterback in Mendoza on the way. Bringing in an experienced veteran like Cousins gives the team stability at the QB position and someone to guide Mendoza's development.

The details

The Raiders moved quickly to sign Cousins, 34, to a 2-year, $45 million contract. Cousins has been a consistent starter in the NFL for the past decade, making the Pro Bowl in 2016 and 2017. He will provide a steadying presence in the quarterback room and on the field as Mendoza adjusts to the pro game.

  • The Raiders signed Cousins on April 5, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.

The players

Kirk Cousins

A 34-year-old veteran quarterback who has been a consistent starter in the NFL for the past decade, making the Pro Bowl in 2016 and 2017.

Klint Kubiak

The new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, who was instrumental in bringing Cousins to the team.

Fernando Mendoza

A highly-touted quarterback prospect expected to be selected by the Raiders with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“Bringing in a veteran like Kirk Cousins is huge for our team. He'll be a great mentor for Fernando and help us transition to the next era of Raiders football.”

— Klint Kubiak, Head Coach, Las Vegas Raiders

What’s next

The Raiders will continue to prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft, where they are expected to select Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick.

The takeaway

The Raiders' signing of Kirk Cousins is a savvy move that provides veteran leadership and experience to help guide their young quarterback of the future, Fernando Mendoza, as he transitions to the NFL.