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Door Opening For Fernando Mendoza Move Into Raiders’ Starting Lineup

After a narrow loss to the Chiefs in Week 4, the Raiders were on the losing end of a 45-17 result in Foxborough. The Patriots loss concluded with the visitors giving Fernando Mendoza his first NFL reps, and discussions about…

By Sam Robinson · Pro Football Rumors

Published: Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 3:52 AM

Key Things to Know

Internal discussions have begun regarding starting rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza over veteran Kirk Cousins.
Mendoza made his NFL debut in a 45-17 loss to the Patriots, passing for 48 yards.
Cousins has thrown 12 touchdowns through five games on a one-year, $11.3 million contract.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Discussions are reportedly forming within the Las Vegas Raiders about transitioning starting quarterback duties from Kirk Cousins to rookie Fernando Mendoza. The No. 1 overall pick made his NFL debut during a 45-17 loss to the New England Patriots, completing six of eight passes for 48 yards.

While Cousins has thrown 12 touchdown passes during a 3-2 start under head coach Klint Kubiak, the team views him as a bridge quarterback. With games against the Bills and Rams approaching, a potential starting debut for Mendoza could emerge in Week 8 against the Jets.

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Door Opening For Fernando Mendoza Move Into Raiders’ Starting Lineup

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