Raiders QB Kirk Cousins Ready to Mentor Fernando Mendoza in Las Vegas

Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins signs one-year deal with the Raiders, embracing a mentorship role with young star Fernando Mendoza.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:18am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic action of a football game, with the players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and line, capturing the raw energy and movement of the sport.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes quarterback competition unfolding in Las Vegas, where veteran Kirk Cousins aims to mentor the Raiders' rising star Fernando Mendoza.Las Vegas Today

Veteran NFL quarterback Kirk Cousins has signed a one-year, $20 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders, where he will compete with rising star Fernando Mendoza for the starting job. Cousins, 37, is taking on a mentorship role with the 24-year-old Mendoza, hoping to help shape the future of the franchise. The move is seen as a shift in priorities for Cousins, who is less concerned with individual stats and more focused on leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the field.

Why it matters

Cousins' decision to join the Raiders defies conventional wisdom for a quarterback in the twilight of his career. Instead of seeking a comfortable, low-stakes role, he has chosen a situation with an uncertain future, highlighting his competitive spirit and desire to make a lasting impact. The mentorship dynamic between Cousins and Mendoza is also noteworthy, as veteran players rarely embrace such selfless roles in today's NFL.

The details

Cousins, who has spent the majority of his 14-year career with the Washington Football Team and Minnesota Vikings, signed a one-year, $20 million deal with the Raiders. The move reunites him with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, whom Cousins trusts. Cousins is also eager to mentor Mendoza, the Raiders' presumptive quarterback of the future, and help shape the direction of the franchise.

  • Cousins signed his one-year contract with the Raiders on April 5, 2026.
  • Mendoza visited Cousins in Las Vegas to watch film and discuss the upcoming season.

The players

Kirk Cousins

A 37-year-old veteran quarterback who has spent the majority of his 14-year NFL career with the Washington Football Team and Minnesota Vikings. Cousins is now joining the Las Vegas Raiders on a one-year, $20 million contract, where he will compete with and mentor young quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

Fernando Mendoza

A 24-year-old quarterback who is considered the future of the Las Vegas Raiders franchise. Mendoza recently visited Cousins in Las Vegas to watch film and discuss the upcoming season, as Cousins looks to mentor the young quarterback.

Klint Kubiak

The offensive coordinator for the Las Vegas Raiders, who previously worked with Cousins during their time together with the Minnesota Vikings.

Tom Brady

The minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, who likely played a role in recruiting Cousins to the team.

Al Davis

The late owner of the Oakland/Los Angeles/Las Vegas Raiders, whose famous quote about the franchise's future is displayed throughout the team's facilities.

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What they’re saying

“The greatness of the Raiders lies in its future.”

— Al Davis, Former Raiders Owner

“This isn't just a career decision—it's a statement about where I am in my life, both professionally and personally.”

— Kirk Cousins, Raiders Quarterback

What’s next

Cousins and Mendoza will continue to work closely together throughout the offseason and training camp as they compete for the starting quarterback job. The Raiders' coaching staff will closely monitor the dynamic between the veteran and the young star, as they look to build the franchise's future around the right quarterback.

The takeaway

Kirk Cousins' decision to join the Las Vegas Raiders represents a shift in priorities for the veteran quarterback, as he looks to leave a lasting legacy through mentorship and shaping the future of the franchise, rather than solely focusing on individual statistics and accolades. This move defies conventional wisdom and highlights Cousins' selflessness and competitive spirit, which could prove invaluable for the Raiders as they look to rebuild and return to their former glory.