Kirk Cousins Named Raiders' Starting Quarterback for Week 1

The Las Vegas Raiders have confirmed Kirk Cousins as their starting quarterback for Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins, as announced by head coach Klint Kubiak on Wednesday.

This decision concludes the quarterback competition involving Cousins, rookie Fernando Mendoza, and Aidan O’Connell. Cousins, who has shown strong performance during training camp and preseason, completed 13 of 17 passes for 101 yards and one touchdown in two preseason games.

At 38 years old, Cousins enters his 15th NFL season with a notable record of 167 career starts, 44,700 passing yards, and 298 touchdowns. He joined the Raiders in April after two seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. Meanwhile, Mendoza, the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, will serve as Cousins' backup, allowing him to develop under the guidance of the veteran quarterback.