Cousins Aims to Earn Raiders Starting QB Role

Veteran QB hopes to claim top spot in first season with new team

Apr. 9, 2026 at 3:28am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a quarterback dropping back to pass, with the player's form broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange, conveying the dynamic competition for the starting job.The competition between veteran QB Kirk Cousins and incumbent starter Derek Carr could reshape the Raiders' offense in the coming season.Las Vegas Today

Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins is hoping to earn the starting job with the Las Vegas Raiders in his first season with the team. Cousins, who signed with the Raiders as a free agent this offseason, believes he can compete for the top QB spot on the depth chart.

Why it matters

The Raiders are looking to rebound after a disappointing 2025 season, and Cousins' arrival provides them with an experienced signal-caller to potentially lead the offense. His ability to win the starting job could have a significant impact on the team's fortunes in the upcoming year.

The details

Cousins, a 12-year NFL veteran, joined the Raiders this offseason after spending the past four seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. He is expected to compete with incumbent starter Derek Carr for the top QB job in Las Vegas. Cousins has a career passer rating of 98.0 and has thrown for over 35,000 yards and 240 touchdowns in his career.

  • Cousins signed with the Raiders as a free agent this offseason.

The players

Kirk Cousins

A 12-year NFL veteran quarterback who signed with the Las Vegas Raiders as a free agent this offseason.

Derek Carr

The incumbent starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders.

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What they’re saying

“I'm excited for the opportunity to compete for the starting job in Las Vegas. This is a talented roster and I believe I can help take the team to the next level.”

— Kirk Cousins, Quarterback

What’s next

The Raiders will hold an open competition at quarterback during training camp and the preseason, with Cousins and Carr both vying for the starting role.

The takeaway

Cousins' arrival in Las Vegas provides the Raiders with an experienced and accomplished quarterback who will push Carr for the starting job. The competition could bring out the best in both players and ultimately improve the team's quarterback play in the 2026 season.