Published October 22, 2026 10:49 AM
With the Raiders at 3-3, Kirk Cousins has played well enough to keep No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza on the sidelines.
But Mendoza is still making progress behind the scenes.
Asked about Mendoza in his Wednesday press conference, head coach Klint Kubiak praised the young QB for his efforts.
“I’m very pleased with where he’s at, and none of us really know until he goes and plays. But he’s doing everything that we’re asking him to do,” Kubiak said, via transcript from the team. “Really, he’s doing more than asked, and that’s just his character.”
More than what he’s asked?
“Yeah, I think it’s as simple as me just walking down the hall here to go get in the steam room when everybody’s gone, and he’s out here on the field by himself,” Kubiak said. “So, he’s not the only guy that’s doing that, but he’s putting in the extra time.”
Cousins also noted that Mendoza is staying ready for whenever his opportunity comes.
“He’s making plays, learning every day, and just refining, as we’re all doing,” Cousins said in his Wednesday press conference. “I’m in year 15, still trying to refine, and he’s doing it. Thought he played well against New England, and he’ll be ready if for when his number is called, he’ll be ready, and he’s staying ready.”
Mendoza appeared in Week 5 blowout loss to New England, completing 6-of-8 passes for 48 yards.