HENDERSON, Nev. — The Raiders are preparing for the upcoming season with a clear competition at the quarterback position. Kirk Cousins is currently listed as the starter, but his role may not be permanent. Cousins has been upfront about how things work in the league.
He said that a player’s value is determined by their most recent performance. Coach Klint Kubiak confirmed Cousins as the starter early in training camp. However, Kubiak also made it clear that anyone who outperforms Cousins should expect to take over.
He believes the team has seen improvement in recent practices. Cousins is known for his intensity during practice sessions. He doesn’t direct that energy toward either Mendoza or another quarterback on the roster.
Cousins described his competitive nature as something that comes naturally to him. He added that he can stay calm unless someone challenges his performance. The Raiders brought in Cousins to serve as a bridge between the old and new systems.
He is entering his 15th season and has been selected to four Pro Bowls. The team drafted Fernando Mendoza first overall in the draft. Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy and led Indiana to a national championship.
Adjusting to the NFL has been a process for Mendoza. He is still learning how to take snaps and adapting his footwork. Despite this, Mendoza has shown a strong mindset in training camp.
Kubiak praised the way Mendoza approaches his work. He said that kind of attitude should be common among all players. Mendoza mentioned how quickly things go in rookie minicamp and OTAs.
His performance during a seven-on-seven drill was one of the first major moments in camp. Before the snap, Mendoza signaled to wide receiver Phillip Dorsett II to move left. He admitted that his offensive line often corrected him during plays.
The rest of the team also helped guide him into better positions. This approach has been well received by teammates. Wide receiver Tre Tucker said Mendoza is always trying to improve.
He watches Mendoza in meetings and sees him take feedback seriously. The competition between Cousins and Mendoza continues to shape the Raiders’ future. Both players are showing their dedication in preparation for the season.
The team’s leadership believes this rivalry will benefit everyone involved. It remains to be seen who will start when the season begins. But both quarterbacks are working hard to earn their place in the lineup.
IMAGE: All-Pro Reels / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)