Las Vegas Raiders quarterback depth chart status

The Las Vegas Raiders' quarterback situation has centered on the transition between veteran Kirk Cousins and rookie No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza. Initially, head coach Klint Kubiak maintained a developmental approach, allowing Mendoza to learn the offense while Cousins led the team to consecutive victories to open the 2026 season.

Following Mendoza’s NFL debut during a 45-17 loss to the New England Patriots in Week 5, where he completed six of eight passes for 48 yards, speculation arose regarding changes to the depth chart. Despite the rookie appearing in the final minutes of the blowout, Kubiak has confirmed that Cousins will remain the starting quarterback, noting that Cousins continues to rank among the league leaders in passing yards and touchdowns.

As the Raiders hold a 3-2 record, analysts suggest the veteran's margin for error may be decreasing. Upcoming matchups against the Buffalo Bills and Los Angeles Rams are viewed as critical tests; observers note that if team performance continues to decline, the organization may accelerate Mendoza's development to secure the franchise's future.