The Las Vegas Raiders have secured veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, a four-time Pro Bowler, in a move that sets up a transitional plan for the franchise. The team is widely expected to use the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft to select Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
Cousins, 37, was released by the Atlanta Falcons after signing a four-year contract two seasons ago. He started eight games last season, posting a 5-3 record. His familiarity with new Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak, who coached him in Minnesota, is a key factor.
The Raiders traded Geno Smith after one season and needed a veteran presence. Team leadership, including minority owner Tom Brady and GM John Spytek, have publicly advocated for not playing a young quarterback immediately. This philosophy suggests Cousins would start Week 1, allowing Mendoza to develop behind the scenes.