Raiders QB Battle Heats Up: Kirk Cousins Frontrunner for QB1, Fernando Mendoza ‘Has Not Disappointed’

The Las Vegas Raiders’ first open OTA practice offered an early look at the quarterback hierarchy, with veteran Kirk Cousins taking all first-team reps, Aidan O’Connell working behind him and No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza rotating third, mostly with rookies during competitive periods. While the Raiders continue to say the competition remains open and that the best player will win the job, the day’s order suggested Cousins is the early favorite to start Week 1. Head coach Klint Kubiak said the team hopes the competition becomes clearer over the next several OTAs and minicamp practices, adding that the Raiders want the quarterbacks to “figure that out” through their film. Mendoza’s role reflects the team’s effort to ease him into the NFL and into Kubiak’s offense. The Heisman Trophy winner has acknowledged learning the demands of operating under center in a West Coast scheme, and Kubiak said the rookie has been attentive, coachable and quick to correct mistakes. Cousins also delivered several strong throws and showed vocal leadership during team drills, directing teammates and celebrating successful plays. Kubiak called him a professional and a leader the team is counting on as Las Vegas works through a new offensive identity. At the same time, Kubiak expressed confidence in Mendoza’s long-term upside, saying he has lived up to expectations.

Star pass rusher Maxx Crosby was present at practice for the first time since his trade to the Baltimore Ravens collapsed in March, but he did not participate in drills. Crosby, who is recovering from surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, spent time on the sideline before greeting teammates and leaving the field. Kubiak said Crosby has been highly engaged around the facility and is on track to return by training camp, with the possibility he could be ahead of schedule.

Rookie cornerback Jermod McCoy also took a step forward. After limited work in rookie minicamp following knee concerns, McCoy participated fully in OTAs, joining individual drills, special teams work and team periods. Kubiak said the Raiders have a plan to manage his workload as he continues recovering from a torn ACL and a cartilage issue that contributed to his fall in the draft. McCoy worked mainly with rookies but looked fluid and has impressed the staff with his effort and progress.

Several veteran offseason additions were absent from Wednesday’s voluntary session, including Taron Johnson, Jalen Nailor, Nakobe Dean, Benito Jones and Matt Gay. Most of the absences were not viewed as concerning, with Nailor welcoming a child and Dean attending a graduation ceremony. Johnson, however, has not been seen in Las Vegas since the trade, though Kubiak said the team remains in contact and is not worried for now. If and when Johnson reports, he is expected to compete for the starting nickel role.