The Las Vegas Raiders have officially named Kirk Cousins as their starting quarterback for the opening game of the 2026 season, a decision that was anticipated given the team's recent strategy. Although Fernando Mendoza was projected to be the No. 1 overall pick for several months, the Raiders' management had indicated a preference for the rookie to learn under a veteran before taking the reins.
This decision places Mendoza in a unique category among recent first-round quarterbacks. He is now the first player selected first overall since Baker Mayfield in 2018 who will not be starting in Week 1. This trend is particularly notable as it contrasts sharply with the experiences of other recent No. 1 picks.
Since Mayfield's situation, several quarterbacks have stepped into starting roles right from the beginning of the season. Players like Kyler Murray (2019), Joe Burrow (2020), Trevor Lawrence (2021), Bryce Young (2023), Caleb Williams (2024), and Cam Ward (2025) all made their debuts as starters in Week 1 after being selected first overall. Mendoza's situation echoes that of Jared Goff, who also sat out the season opener after being drafted first overall in 2016.
Only three quarterbacks have not started the season as QB1 since Matthew Stafford was picked first overall in 2009: Goff, Mayfield, and now Mendoza. In contrast, other notable quarterbacks like Sam Bradford (2010), Cam Newton (2011), Andrew Luck (2012), and Jameis Winston (2015) all began their careers as starters in their respective opening games.
In Mayfield's case, he eventually took the field by Week 3, stepping in for an injured Tyrod Taylor and leading the Cleveland Browns to their first victory since 2016 with a 21-17 win over the New York Jets. Goff's path to becoming the starter was more gradual, as he did not take over for the Los Angeles Rams until Week 11 of his rookie season.
Despite not starting, Mendoza's development remains a top priority for the Raiders. Offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak emphasized the importance of continued growth through practice and meetings, stating, "Early work, late work. More meetings. Plenty of time on the field between drills with [quarterbacks] coach [Mike] Sullivan and [offensive coordinator] coach [Andrew] Janocko." This approach aims to ensure that Mendoza is ready when his opportunity arises.
Historically, several quarterbacks have found success despite not starting immediately. Kubiak noted, "I think there are so many examples both ways. The most important thing with the quarterback room or any other position is to build competition within the room. That makes players so much better faster than coaching, when they have a guy in front of them that they can look up to and see how something’s done — that’s going to accelerate their growth."
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen when Mendoza will take the field as the Raiders' starting quarterback. If Cousins performs well and leads the team to victories, Mendoza may have to wait until 2027 for his chance. However, history suggests that it is only a matter of time before he sees action as a rookie.
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