Klint Kubiak says Fernando Mendoza 'needs another 3 preseason games' as Raiders mum on QB1
Key Points:
- Las Vegas Raiders coach Klint Kubiak has again declined to name a starting quarterback following their 18-12 preseason loss to the San Francisco 49ers, indicating ongoing evaluation.
- Rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza still requires significant development, with Kubiak stating he needs more preseason games to gain experience before being ready to start.
- Mendoza showed both promise and areas for improvement during Thursday's game, completing 7 of 14 passes for 57 yards with one interception and taking two sacks over five drives.
- The Raiders acquired veteran Kirk Cousins to serve as a bridge quarterback while Mendoza adjusts to Kubiak’s under-center, play-action-heavy offensive scheme.
- It is expected that Cousins will start in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins, with Kubiak emphasizing patience and long-term development for Mendoza rather than rushing him into action.