Raiders Coach Delays Decision on Starting Quarterback
Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak has indicated that he is not in a hurry to announce a starting quarterback, as the competition remains open between rookie Fernando Mendoza and veteran Kirk Cousins.
In a recent preseason game against the Houston Texans, Mendoza, who was the No. 1 overall draft pick and Heisman Trophy winner, started and completed 8 of 15 passes for 86 yards, including an 80-yard interception return for a touchdown. Kubiak emphasized the importance of competition across all positions, stating that players should not feel secure in their roles.
Cousins, who recently turned 38, did not play against the Texans after participating in only one drive during the preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals, where he completed 5 of 6 passes for 50 yards and a touchdown. The Raiders will conclude their preseason at home against the San Francisco 49ers before starting the regular season against the Miami Dolphins on September 13.
