Raiders' Kirk Cousins Talks Fernando Mendoza's Development, 'Just a Matter of Time'

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins will start the season as the Silver and Black's QB1, with 2026 No. 1 overall draft pick and reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Fernando Mendoza, waiting for his turn.

Cousins has great confidence Mendoza will figure it out soon enough, according to ESPN's Ryan McFadden.

"It's just a matter of time before it really gets to a point where he looks back and he says, 'Man, I really feel like I've got this,'" Cousins said.

McFadden also relayed some particulars on Cousins' thoughts regarding Mendoza.

"Cousins did say Mendoza has a great understanding of what it takes to be a pro, to learn a system and understand defenses," McFadden wrote. "Cousins said all those habits that Mendoza has displayed will lead to winning the long game and developing as a player."

Mendoza will learn behind Cousins for now as the veteran, on a one-year, $11.3 million deal, leads the Raiders into the start of head coach Klint Kubiak's era after the ex-Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator took over Las Vegas' sidelines.

The former Indiana star experienced an up-and-down preseason, completing 26-of-46 passes for 250 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. However, Mendoza has a bright future ahead if his collegiate career is any indication.

Mendoza showed great poise and leadership en route to leading Indiana to a 16-0 season and its first-ever national championship, which made him a surefire lock at No. 1 overall.

Cousins has faith in Mendoza's abilities moving forward. We'll see when Mendoza takes over down the line, but in the meantime, the Raiders will begin their season on Sunday at home against the Miami Dolphins.