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Raiders Sign Kirk Cousins as Veteran Bridge for Expected No. 1 Pick

The veteran's arrival signals Las Vegas plans to let projected top pick Fernando Mendoza learn before taking over.

Overview

  • Cousins, whose agent Mike McCartney announced the deal Thursday, gives Las Vegas a seasoned quarterback as it readies the top pick later this month.
  • Head coach Klint Kubiak said earlier this week he prefers a rookie to learn behind a veteran, making a Week 1 start for Mendoza less likely.
  • The move stabilizes a thin depth chart that featured only Aidan O’Connell after Geno Smith was traded, and follows a failed run at Joe Flacco reported by ESPN.
  • Contract terms were not disclosed at announcement, though NFL Network reporting says Cousins would receive $10 million in 2026 with most paid by the Falcons, plus a $10 million roster bonus and a two-year team option.
  • Cousins reunites with Kubiak from their Minnesota days, and the signing lands a day after Indiana’s Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza held his pro day as the widely expected No. 1 pick.