Kirk Cousins, the veteran quarterback, has joined the Las Vegas Raiders, where he will serve as both a starting quarterback and mentor for rookie Fernando Mendoza, who is projected to be the top pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Coach Klint Kubiak expressed the need for an experienced signal caller to help Mendoza learn the intricacies of the game. Cousins, who has 15 years of NFL experience, previously played under Kubiak during their time with the Minnesota Vikings, where they developed a strong rapport. In his career, Cousins has started 167 games, achieving a completion percentage of 66.7% and throwing for over 44,700 yards. His familiarity with Kubiak’s offensive system is expected to facilitate a smoother transition in Las Vegas. Cousins has expressed enthusiasm about mentoring Mendoza, emphasizing the importance of competition and team success. He believes that if he is the best option for the team, he will play, but he is equally committed to helping Mendoza grow as a quarterback.