Las Vegas Raiders Training Camp Preview: All eyes are set to be on Klint Kubiak as there’s a decision to be made that could shape his career
The Las Vegas Raiders are set to start training camp very soon, and some important decisions will need to be made by Klint Kubiak, like the quarterback battle between Mendoza and Cousins.
The Las Vegas Raiders are set to kick off training camp soon. And there’s a battle that will have the whole league’s eyes on it.
This is the one that everyone will be watching, and rightfully so. If we’re being honest, there’s not really a battle here. Sure, there is, but we all know Kirk Cousins is the starter for Week 1. That hasn’t been addressed or announced, but based on Kubiak’s words over the last few months, we can infer Cousins will be the guy to start the season. The battle here is seeing just how much better Fernando Mendoza gets over the course of the month.
The battle here is seeing just how much better Mendoza plays at times over Aidan O’Connell and Cousins. Mendoza will be the talk of camp, and he should be. He’s the No. 1 overall pick, and a franchise quarterback in waiting. This will also be where Mendoza will show just how early he could be ready to play in the NFL. If he does well and plays well in the preseason games, maybe Vegas is more likely to throw him in the fire earlier in the regular season. Mendoza is the future, and all eyes will be on him. If he’s bad, it will be talked about, unfortunately. If he’s amazing, it will be talked about. This is a battle everyone is watching, not just the Raiders and their fan base.
Although he’s been taking third-string reps through Mandatory Minicamp and OTAs, it’s evident he won’t remain in that role for long. According to NFL insider Albert Breer (Sports Illustrated), Mendoza will receive a “sprinkle” of first-team reps during training camp. Rookies report July 23.
Kirk Cousins still has some game left, too
The Raiders signed Kirk Cousins with the development of rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza in mind. Their goal is to have Mendoza learn from a veteran whose style and temperament closely match his own, laying a solid foundation for the team’s future at the position.
That said, Mendoza could claim the starting job as early as 2026 if his development accelerates. A strong performance in training camp might even earn him earlier snaps. Mendoza’s high draft selection is a testament to his talent and readiness. Should he start, Cousins has demonstrated he’s committed to mentoring his successor and supporting the team’s long-term vision. If Cousins remains under center, his veteran presence and proven ability to win games still give the Raiders a competitive edge.
With both a proven veteran and an ascending rookie, the Raiders have enviable quarterback depth. Last season in Atlanta, Cousins began as a backup but started 10 games, posting impressive advanced metrics—an 89.5% catchable ball rate (seventh among players with 100+ attempts) and a 78.1% on-target percentage (sixth best). His accuracy remains a significant asset.
Cousins’ accuracy is unquestioned; now, his success depends on fitting into the right system and having solid support around him. His prior experience with Coach Klint Kubiak in Minnesota (2023) provides valuable familiarity. The Raiders have secured their ideal quarterback duo, and Cousins is fully invested in mentoring Mendoza as the rookie begins his professional journey.