Raiders Consider Rookie QB as Cousins' Replacement

The Las Vegas Raiders, once 3-0, are now on a four-game losing streak, prompting head coach Klint Kubiak to admit the team is considering all options—including starting rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza ^[1].

After a 35-21 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, Kubiak said, "At this point we’re thinking about everything," citing concerns across red zone efficiency, third-quarter struggles, and scheme adjustments ^[2].

Cousins, who completed 26 of 44 passes for 295 yards and two touchdowns in the loss, acknowledged the pressure but reiterated his commitment: "If I’m not the best option, then I don’t want to be out there either" ^[1].

Despite a 94.4 passer rating and 16 touchdowns through seven games, Cousins’ performance was inconsistent. He managed only 39 yards in the first half and the Raiders didn’t score until the fourth quarter. The defense allowed 386 yards and 35.8 points per game since Week 4, with the Rams gaining 199 rushing yards ^[2].

Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in April, has yet to start but has shown promise in limited action—completing 6 of 8 passes for 48 yards in Week 5 ^[2]. Kubiak said he didn’t consider a switch during the Rams game, as the Raiders remained competitive down the stretch.

Cousins praised Mendoza’s development, calling him "a great job" and stating he wants to set a strong example until the rookie takes over ^[1].

The Raiders are the third team in the past decade to start 3-0 or better and then lose four straight, joining the 2021 Broncos and Panthers ^[2].

While Cousins remains the starter, the writing is on the wall: the team is preparing for a transition ^[1]. The story was first reported by New York Post and ESPN.