Raiders Trust Mendoza After Cousins Departure

The Las Vegas Raiders have a new starting quarterback.

Fernando Mendoza stepped onto the practice field Wednesday as the team’s official number one, a change that followed the Tuesday trade of Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings for a third-round draft pick. The 4-5 team began preparations for Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks with Mendoza at the helm.

Players said the transition felt immediate. Tight end Brock Bowers noted that Mendoza arrived at the practice field ready to work. He described the quarterback as dialed in and active, adding that this intensity was nothing new to the group. Bowers said Mendoza had been doing that all along.

Coach Klint Kubiak kept his briefing short. He told the team that everyone already knew the news from their phones. Kubiak said the group addressed the trade, wished Cousins well, and moved on to the present with Mendoza and backup Aidan O’Connell. General Manager John Spytek reinforced this message during Tuesday’s news conference. He stated that the move was not a signal that the Raiders were punting on the current season. Spytek said the team intends to attack the upcoming game against the defending world champions with the same intensity as any other week.

Veterans on the roster praised Mendoza’s preparation. Left tackle Kolton Miller said he did not sense any hesitation or a lack of confidence from the rookie. Miller described Mendoza as ready and prepared, noting that he has been learning a great deal since arriving. Miller added that Mendoza commands the huddle with volume and forcefulness when corrections are needed. He said the team has trust in Mendoza, a sentiment that stems from what players have seen since the quarterback arrived in April.

Wide receiver Tre Tucker, who became close friends with Mendoza, highlighted the rookie’s humility. Tucker said Mendoza works like a player who went undrafted, grinding every day. Tucker said he plans to run through walls for Mendoza on the field. Center Tyler Linderbaum, who was surprised by the trade, said the team is excited for the future. He said it is time to rally around Fernando.

Mendoza was selected with the first pick in the draft after an undefeated Heisman Trophy winning season. His new teammates said the person they met in the building is different from the global superstar seen on television. The Raiders will test that dynamic against Seattle on Sunday.