Raiders showcase quarterback depth and offensive line competition in seventh camp practice
Quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and rookie Fernando Mendoza led a productive session for the Las Vegas Raiders, while the offensive line and running back Ashton Jeanty saw increased competition and involvement.
The Las Vegas Raiders resumed practice Thursday after a rest day, holding their seventh camp session despite windy conditions. Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins opened the drill with two deep touchdown passes, connecting with Jalen Nailor and tight end Brock Bowers on play-action throws. Rookie Fernando Mendoza focused on short-range throws, targeting receivers Shedrick Jackson and Malik Benson.
Assistant head coach Mike McCoy highlighted the team’s collaborative effort, noting that “they’re all in this together” and that the camp aims to identify the best five offensive linemen to form the strongest eleven. Right guard rotations included Jackson Powers-Johnson and Caleb Rogers, while Spencer Burford continued to handle most left-guard reps, with Jordan Meredith and rookie Trey Zuhn III challenging for snaps.
Defensive play featured linebacker Buddy Johnson reading quarterback Aidan O’Connell’s eyes in zone coverage, and cornerback Hezekiah Masses continuing to impress by batting down passes. Running back Ashton Jeanty displayed a more active role, breaking off sizable runs and catching more passes than earlier in camp. McCoy said Jeanty is “really taking advantage of what the coaching staff’s asking him to do” and expects his touch count to rise.