Raiders Weigh Mendoza’s Future as Cousins Trade Rumors Grow

The Raiders’ 3-4 start has intensified questions about when Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall draft pick, will take over at quarterback. Las Vegas opened the season 3-0 but has since lost four consecutive games, including a 35-21 defeat to the Rams in Week 7. Coach Klint Kubiak has said Cousins will start in Week 8, while also indicating Mendoza will play at some point.

Cousins has delivered strong numbers through seven games: 16 touchdown passes, an NFL-leading total, and 1,877 passing yards, with five interceptions. His play has helped keep the Raiders competitive as the defense has allowed 28.1 points per game. Mendoza, by contrast, has appeared in only one regular-season series, completing six of eight passes for 46 yards against New England in Week 6.

The Raiders selected Mendoza first overall after a 3-14 season and brought in Cousins as a veteran bridge. Cousins’ contract was reworked to include a $1.3 million base salary this season, a detail that could make him an affordable option for another team. The Raiders have not indicated they are eager to trade him.

The Giants have emerged as a possible fit in trade speculation, alongside the Panthers and Vikings. New York is 4-2-1 and leads the NFC East, despite losing starting quarterback Jaxson Dart for the season. J.J. McCarthy has taken over and won his first start for the team, but Cousins could provide an experienced alternative as the Giants pursue a playoff run.

The NFL trade deadline is November 10. Las Vegas’ upcoming schedule includes the Jets, followed by games against the 49ers, Seahawks and Broncos.