Las Vegas Raiders have another veteran quarterback in mind for 2026

Las Vegas Raiders have another veteran quarterback in mind for 2026
Las Vegas Raiders have another veteran quarterback in mind for 2026

The NFL has officially turned its attention to the 2026 NFL Draft. The league’s annual meetings concluded on Tuesday and teams are now finalizing their draft boards.

That doesn’t necessarily mean teams have left free agency. The Las Vegas Raiders were very active in the early stages and are not done yet.

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The Raiders are expected to select Fernando Mendoza; however, they have also explored the veteran market. After missing out on Joe Flacco, reports indicate they have turned their attention elsewhere.

Kubiak meeting?

Veteran free agent quarterback Kirk Cousins ​​has emerged as the leading candidate for the Silver and Black, according to reports. The Atlanta Falcons released Cousins ​​in early March and he took his time evaluating his next move.

The Falcons surprised Cousins ​​when they selected Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, shortly after Cousins ​​signed a huge long-term contract.

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In this scenario, Cousins ​​would face very different expectations. He is no longer expected to serve as the long-term face of a franchise, but could provide valuable mentorship to Mendoza.

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A key connection in this situation is Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak, who served as Cousins’ offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach from 2019 to 2021.

Cousins ​​enjoyed significant success under Kubiak, earning two Pro Bowl selections during that span. He could provide the veteran leadership that Kubiak values ​​and perhaps even revive his career once again.

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Kubiak also served as an offensive architect in Seattle when the Seahawks won the Super Bowl last year, helping Sam Darnold complete his career resurgence.

Can Kubiak help resurrect Cousins’ career as Mendoza develops?

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