NFL
Raiders Leave Door Open to Fernando Mendoza After Fourth Straight Loss
Kubiak’s postgame comments leave the quarterback decision open after Las Vegas falls to 3–4. Cousins remains the incumbent.
Las Vegas Raiders coach Klint Kubiak left open the possibility of turning to rookie Fernando Mendoza after Sunday’s 35–21 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, the team’s fourth consecutive defeat.
Asked about the quarterback position, Kubiak said the staff would review the film and consider personnel and scheme changes, according to NFL.com’s account of his postgame remarks. He said “we’re thinking about everything,” without announcing a change from Kirk Cousins.
Cousins completed 26 of 44 passes for 295 yards and two touchdowns against Los Angeles. The Raiders trailed 28–6 at halftime and fell to 3–4. Through seven games, Cousins has 1,877 passing yards, 16 touchdown passes and five interceptions.
The rookie’s development behind Cousins has been a subject of discussion since Las Vegas selected Mendoza first overall. Earlier this month, Alex Smith explained what Mendoza could learn from watching the veteran.
The problems extend beyond quarterback. Ashton Jeanty gained 15 yards on eight carries Sunday, while the defense allowed at least 30 points for a fourth straight game. Kubiak also pointed to the offense’s lack of balance. Las Vegas faces the New York Jets next.
