Mendoza takes field as Raiders' starter after Cousins trade

Fernando Mendoza stepped onto the practice field for the first time as the Las Vegas Raiders starting quarterback on Wednesday. He smiled broadly while addressing reporters at the podium, marking his first public appearance in the lead role.

Mendoza called the chance a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. He expressed gratitude to the people who supported him during his development on the team. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I can't thank everybody that's supported me up to this point," he said.

The change in quarterback status followed a trade that sent Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings on Tuesday. The Raiders acquired a third-round draft pick in the deal. General Manager John Spytek and Head Coach Klint Kubiak indicated at a Tuesday news conference that the decision stemmed from a belief that Mendoza was ready to take the lead.

Cousins, now with the Vikings, thanked the Raiders for the chance to play during the previous offseason. Speaking at the Vikings facility on Wednesday, he described the departure as difficult after building rapport with the current roster. "[I] want to say thank you to the Raiders for the opportunity they gave me this past offseason and the chance they gave me to play," Cousins said.

Mendoza credited Cousins with teaching him key lessons, including the importance of preparation and staying authentic. He also noted that quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan helped boost his confidence. "Sometimes Coach Sully will reference back to 'Spring Fernando,' and I'm a lot more confident as a quarterback," Mendoza said.

The Raiders face the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday at 1:05 p.m. at Allegiant Stadium. The Seahawks are the reigning Super Bowl champions and are the former team of Head Coach Klint Kubiak. Mendoza said he and backup Aidan O'Connell will continue preparing as if they were the starter, aiming to execute the offense and showcase the talent on the team.

Mendoza described the quarterback room with Cousins as a special family. He stated that he wants to thank the entire Cousins family from the bottom of his heart for their mentorship during his time in Las Vegas.