Las Vegas Raiders quarterbackKirk Cousins recently spoke honestly about his role with the Las Vegas Raiders. In an interview, he made it clear that he wants to compete for the starting quarterback job even if the team drafts highly touted quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
“I want to start unless I’m the best.”Cousins said, and also added that he is ready to earn the position and will not simply hand it over to a rookie.
Cousins signed a five-year, $172 million contract with the Raiders in early April 2026. However, the deal is structured so that only $20 million is fully guaranteed in the first year. The Raiders are expected to use the top pick on Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner from Indiana, who had a standout 2025 college season with over 3,500 passing yards and 41 touchdowns. This has created a clear quarterback competition heading into the season.
Raiders QB Kirk Cousins Makes Bold Statement on Starting Job if Raiders Draft Fernando Mendoza
Raiders QB Kirk Cousins Makes Bold Statement on Starting Job if Raiders Draft Fernando Mendoza (Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images)
The Raiders finished the 2025 season with a disappointing record and are looking to rebuild around a new young quarterback while using Cousins as a veteran leader and possible bridge.
Cousins’ words show he is not ready to step aside.
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Kirk Cousins’ Competitive Mindset Adds New Layer to Raiders’ Quarterback Plan
Kirk Cousins has always been known for his work ethic and desire to compete. At 37 years old, he is coming off a solid season and wants to prove he can still start in the NFL.
“It ought to be a noisy room, where we’re all asking questions, all giving each other feedback on what we think”Cousins touched down on the locker room environment. His honest comments make it clear that he will fight for the starting job rather than automatically becoming a mentor for Mendoza.
This puts extra pressure on the Raiders’ coaching staff and front office. They must decide how much playing time to give each quarterback during training camp and the preseason.
If Mendoza shows he is ready, the team may start the rookie early. But Cousins’ experience and leadership could still be valuable, especially if the young quarterback needs time to adjust to the speed of the NFL.
The Raiders have invested heavily in Cousins with the big contract, but they also hold the No. 1 pick and are expected to take Mendoza
Cousins’ mindset shows he is not just there to collect a paycheck. He wants to compete and help the team win. This honest approach could make the 2026 season interesting for Raiders fans as they watch how the quarterback room develops.