Why the Raiders should start rookie QB Fernando Mendoza right away over Kirk Cousins

Key Points:

• The Las Vegas Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, hoping he will be the franchise's future after his standout college career leading Indiana to a championship and winning the Heisman Trophy.
• Unlike most No. 1 overall quarterbacks who start immediately, the Raiders signed veteran Kirk Cousins to start the season and mentor Mendoza, opting to develop him gradually rather than rushing him into the lineup.
• Former coach Doug Pederson advocates for starting Mendoza right away to gain experience and grow through early challenges, citing his experience with Carson Wentz’s immediate rookie season start.
• Conversely, Raiders minority owner Tom Brady criticizes the trend of starting rookie quarterbacks immediately, calling it a "tragedy" and advocating for more development time before playing.
• Historical data shows rookie quarterbacks often face growing pains, with most teams not contending for Super Bowls during their rookie seasons; the Raiders’ choice to start a veteran aims to better prepare Mendoza for long-term success.