Fernando Mendoza or Kirk Cousins? Raiders say "best guy will play" in Week One
NBC Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The Raiders plan to evaluate Fernando Mendoza, Kirk Cousins, and Aidan O’Connell before naming their Week One starting quarterback, emphasizing a merit-based decision.
- General Manager John Spytek stressed the importance of not rushing a young quarterback into the NFL, highlighting the complexity of the position beyond just physical skills.
- Despite the trend of first overall quarterback picks starting their rookie season, the Raiders may delay Mendoza’s start if he is not fully prepared.
- Spytek noted the challenges rookies face transitioning to the NFL, including learning to run a huddle and call cadences, which differ significantly from college play styles.
- The signing of Kirk Cousins provides the Raiders with an experienced option should Mendoza not be ready to start at the beginning of the season.
