Raiders Depth Chart Names Cousins Starter, Mendoza Backup

The Las Vegas Raiders have released their first training camp depth chart, listing rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the backup to veteran starter Kirk Cousins. The move formalizes the team's plan for its No. 1 overall draft pick to develop behind an experienced starter, a strategy that received an unexpected test during a recent practice.

The depth chart was released on August 11, 2026, confirming the hierarchy established by head coach Klint Kubiak when training camp opened. Cousins, signed in April after being released by the Atlanta Falcons, is positioned to start while Mendoza, the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner from Indiana, acclimates to the NFL. The Raiders finished the 2025 season with a 3-14 record, which led to the selection of Mendoza and the hiring of Kubiak, who previously served as the Seattle Seahawks' offensive coordinator.

The plan for Mendoza to learn behind Cousins was disrupted on August 8 when a confrontation during practice led to both veterans being disciplined. According to reports, star defensive end Maxx Crosby made contact with Cousins' throwing arm during a play, leading to a heated exchange where Cousins grabbed Crosby's jersey. Teammates...