The Las Vegas Raiders' quarterback situation is becoming increasingly complex. The team has signed Kirk Cousins, but is expected to select top prospect Fernando Mendoza as the No 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. There is now debate over who will start, with Cousins, 37, having signed a lucrative five-year, $172 million contract with the Raiders. However, NFL analyst Chase Daniel believes that starting Fernando Mendoza makes more sense, citing the importance of building a 'high character and high IQ' QB room.
According to Daniel, the presence of Cousins could serve as a developmental bridge, but the rookie should ultimately be the starter when ready. Fans are divided on the issue, with some arguing that it would be advantageous for a rookie to sit behind a veteran, while others believe that Mendoza should be given the opportunity to start as early as Week 1.
ESPN's Mike Greenberg echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Mendoza's readiness should determine when he starts. Greenberg believes that Mendoza could start as early as Week 1, later in the season, or even sit out his entire rookie year and debut in 2027, depending on how quickly he adapts to the NFL.
