Las Vegas Raiders Trade Kirk Cousins, Name Rookie Fernando Mendoza Starting Quarterback
The Las Vegas Raiders have traded quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings and named rookie Fernando Mendoza as their new starting quarterback. Mendoza is scheduled to make his debut on Sunday at Allegiant Stadium.

Reno, NV, November 10, 2026 — The Las Vegas Raiders organization has initiated a significant shift in its quarterback lineup, trading veteran signal-caller Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings. Concurrently, the team has announced that rookie Fernando Mendoza will step into the starting quarterback role.
Mendoza is slated to make his debut as the Raiders’ starting quarterback this coming Sunday. The game is scheduled to take place at Allegiant Stadium, the Raiders’ home venue.
The trade involving Kirk Cousins marks a notable transition for the Raiders’ offensive strategy. Specific details regarding the terms of the trade, including any player compensation or draft picks involved, were not immediately available in the provided information.
The designation of Fernando Mendoza as the starting quarterback signifies the team’s decision to move forward with a younger player at the helm. As a rookie, Mendoza’s upcoming start will be his first opportunity to lead the Raiders from the beginning of a game.
Further details about the team’s strategic direction or the timeline for Mendoza’s continued role as a starter were not provided. The focus now shifts to Mendoza’s performance in his upcoming debut.
Story summarized from the original created by Martha Cruz on www.kolotv.com, see more information here.
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