Raiders Eyeing Kirk Cousins as Backup to Mendoza

Former Falcons QB considered 'prime option' to mentor top draft pick

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:51pm

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The Las Vegas Raiders are reportedly targeting veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins as a potential backup and mentor to their newly drafted starting QB Fernando Mendoza. With Mendoza as the presumptive starter, the Raiders are looking to add an experienced veteran to provide depth and guidance behind the young signal-caller.

Why it matters

The Raiders' decision to pursue Cousins as Mendoza's backup speaks to their desire to have a reliable veteran presence to support their prized rookie QB. Cousins' experience and prior success could be invaluable in helping Mendoza's transition to the NFL, while also providing insurance in case Mendoza struggles or gets injured in his first season.

The details

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Raiders had previously tried to sign veteran Joe Flacco before he re-signed with the Cincinnati Bengals. Now, Cousins has emerged as the 'prime option' for the Raiders to pair with Mendoza. The Los Angeles Rams are also reportedly interested in Cousins, but the Raiders are seen as the frontrunners to land the former Falcons QB.

  • The Raiders are expected to select Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
  • The Raiders previously tried to sign veteran QB Joe Flacco earlier this offseason.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The presumptive starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders after being selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Kirk Cousins

A veteran quarterback who was recently released by the Atlanta Falcons and is now being targeted by the Raiders as a potential backup and mentor to Mendoza.

Aidan O'Connell

The Raiders' current backup quarterback, a failed 2023 fourth-round draft pick who the team is looking to upgrade from.

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What they’re saying

“Signs point to the Las Vegas Raiders adding a veteran quarterback to pair with Fernando Mendoza, and Kirk Cousins is considered a prime option.”

— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The Raiders will continue to monitor the quarterback market and are expected to make a decision on Cousins or another veteran backup option in the coming weeks, ahead of Mendoza's first NFL training camp.

The takeaway

The Raiders' pursuit of Kirk Cousins as a veteran backup and mentor for their prized rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza underscores the team's commitment to providing Mendoza with the best possible support as he transitions to the NFL. Cousins' experience and leadership could be invaluable in helping Mendoza develop and succeed in his first season.