Raiders to Start Cousins, Give Mendoza Reps in Preseason Opener

The Las Vegas Raiders will open their preseason schedule on Thursday night, August 13, 2026, hosting the Arizona Cardinals at Allegiant Stadium. The game will mark the first NFL game action for Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 draft, as the team begins evaluating its quarterback situation.

Head coach Klint Kubiak confirmed that starters will play but declined to specify snap counts, stating, "Our starters are going to play." He added that the team has a plan for its starters regarding playing time but said, "There's no need for everyone else to know." When asked about star pass rusher Maxx Crosby's availability, Kubiak said it was "to be determined."

Kubiak emphasized that Mendoza will receive significant playing time. "There are a lot of players we need to evaluate, and he'll get plenty of reps," Kubiak said. The coach noted that any first-team repetitions for Mendoza would likely come after veteran Kirk Cousins has finished his series. Cousins, entering his 15th NFL season, has been running the first-team offense throughout training camp and is expected to start the regular season on September 13 against the Miami Dolphins.