Deadspin: Raiders Consider Starting No. 1 Pick Fernando Mendoza as Losses Mount

Four Straight Losses

Las Vegas fell 35-21 to the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, extending its losing streak to four games after a 3-0 start. The Raiders again struggled to convert key opportunities.

They made 3 of 14 third-down attempts and scored a touchdown on just one of five red-zone trips. Kubiak identified the red-zone problems as a major concern after the game.

Kubiak Weighs Changes

Kubiak said the Raiders would consider all options as they try to correct their problems, including personnel and scheme. His comments leave open the possibility of evaluating Mendoza for a larger role.

“We’re thinking about everything,” Kubiak said, referring to how the team could address its issues in the red zone and third quarter. He also said players needed to make throws and catches during one-on-one chances near the goal line.

Mendoza’s Limited Action

Mendoza, drafted first overall in April, has completed 6 of 8 passes for 48 yards. Those attempts came in mop-up duty at New England on Oct. 11. He won the Heisman Trophy and led Indiana to the national championship in 2025, but has mostly been the Raiders’ second quarterback. Kubiak and general manager John Spytek had said Cousins would open the 2026 season as the starter.

Cousins’ Position

Asked about potentially giving way to Mendoza, Cousins said the organization would choose what it considered best. He said Mendoza had done a great job and that he would keep trying to help the team win while setting an example for him.