The Las Vegas Raiders have already handed Kirk Cousins the starting quarterback job, but Fernando Mendoza received a golden opportunity Tuesday during the team's joint practice with the Houston Texans. Cousins has worked with the first-team offense throughout training camp, but Kubiak wanted to see what his rookie quarterback could do against Houston's star-studded defense. The No. 1 overall pick got that chance and reportedly put together a strong showing.
"I wanted to see him going against the Texans' ones," Kubiak said. "That was our plan all along. I thought he did some good things.
I look forward to watching the tape." Kubiak also emphasized the need to accelerate Mendoza's development as the Raiders prepare for the regular season. Cousins was equally impressed with what he saw from the rookie. "He did a great job," Cousins said.
"He's well prepared, made some great plays, and he's continuing to do what he's supposed to do and pick up the system quickly." While Cousins remains firmly in line to start Week 1, Kubiak has made it clear that Mendoza will receive plenty of opportunities during the Raiders' final two preseason games. Tuesday's practice was particularly valuable because it allowed the rookie to face Houston's first-team defense in a more competitive environment than a typical preseason snap. More news: Jets Get Clarity on Breece Hall’s Injury Status After Scare in Practice More news: Jaguars HC Liam Coen Provides Update on Trevor Lawrence’s Status vs Panthers Mendoza already impressed in his NFL debut against the Arizona Cardinals.
Cousins started that game and completed 5 of 6 passes for 50 yards and a touchdown on his lone drive, providing a clean introduction to life as the Raiders' new QB1. Mendoza then took over in the second quarter and finished with a team-high 97 passing yards on 10 of 16 passing, including a six-yard touchdown pass to second-year wide receiver Jack Bech. Las Vegas ultimately lost 27-14, but the rookie showed enough to keep the spotlight firmly on him.
The Raiders will face the Texans in Houston on Thursday, just two days after working against their starting defense in practice. Houston's defense should provide a much tougher measuring stick for Mendoza than his preseason debut, making the reps he received Tuesday even more valuable. After Thursday's game, Las Vegas will close out the preseason against the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday, Aug. 27.
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