Raiders Consider Starting Mendoza After Fourth Straight Loss
9 sourcesUpdated Oct 29, 20261 min read
After a 35-21 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Oct. 25, 2026, the Las Vegas Raiders fell to 3-4 and extended a four-game losing streak that followed a 3-0 start. Coach Klint Kubiak said the team is thinking about everything—red-zone and third-quarter problems, personnel and scheme—to fix the issues. Kirk Cousins threw for 295 yards and two touchdowns but the offense converted 3 of 14 third downs and scored a touchdown on only one of five red-zone trips. No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza, the 2025 Heisman winner who led Indiana to a national title, has played only mop-up snaps (6 of 8 for 48 yards at New England). Cousins, who leads the NFL with 16 touchdown passes, told reporters nothing has changed since spring: if he is not the best option he does not want to play, the organization will do what it feels is best, and he praised Mendoza’s future while saying he will keep trying to win and set an example. Kubiak has not announced a starter change. The Raiders next face the New York Jets.
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Left· 5 sources
“Kirk Cousins Gives Honest Quotes on Fernando Medoza, Potential Benching Amid Raiders Losing Streak”Right· 1 source
Cousins saying he supports the best chance to win shows real leadership even if he gets benched this week.
Kubiak should look at the offensive line first before blaming the quarterback. Mendoza needs time to adjust anyway.
Cousins started strong but four straight losses means the team has to try Mendoza or risk wasting the season.
