Raiders name rookie Fernando Mendoza starter after trading Kirk Cousins

The Las Vegas Raiders will start rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza in the upcoming Sunday game against the Seattle Seahawks after trading veteran Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings before the NFL trade deadline. Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 draft, made his regular-season debut in Week 4, completing six of eight passes for 48 yards. General manager John Spytek confirmed the decision at a press conference on Nov. 10, saying Mendoza "passed every test" and that the team faced a "hard decision" regarding his role.

Head coach Klint Kubiak said Mendoza has met and exceeded practice expectations, noting his preparation and mental readiness for the upcoming matchup. Kubiak also highlighted the influence of Cousins on Mendoza’s development, citing lessons on reading blitzes and professional preparation.

The Raiders will face a Seattle defense that did not allow a touchdown in its previous game and will later travel to play the Denver Broncos and Cleveland Browns, both featuring strong defensive units. Offensive support includes tight end Brock Bowers, who ranks ninth in the league in receiving yards, and wide receiver Tre Tucker, who has emerged as a reliable downfield option.

The trade marks a shift for the Raiders, who rank near the bottom of the league in rushing yards per game, and places Mendoza in a position to shoulder much of the offensive output as the team seeks to improve its record.