Why the Raiders finally have a clear direction entering 2026

For the first time in years, optimism surrounding the Las Vegas Raiders feels different.

Locked On Raiders host and ESPN Las Vegas’ Q Myers joined Sactown Sports’ The Matt & Kayla Show to preview training camp, explaining why rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza has given Raider Nation something it hasn’t had in a long time: a legitimate vision for the future.

While fans are eager to see Mendoza take over immediately, Myers expects the Raiders to stick with their original plan of opening the season with veteran Kirk Cousins under center before handing the reins to their first-round quarterback when the time is right.

“The Raiders’ original plan is to start the veteran,” Myers said. “They’re not backed into a corner where they have to make a decision.”

HENDERSON, NEVADA – MAY 28: Quarterbacks Fernando Mendoza #15 and Kirk Cousins #8 of the Las Vegas Raiders practice during an OTA offseason workout at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Health Performance Center on May 28, 2026 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Instead, Myers believes Las Vegas is in the ideal situation. Mendoza can develop behind an experienced quarterback while still pushing for playing time if he impresses throughout training camp.

“Everyone wants to know the million-dollar question: when’s Fernando going to play?” Myers said. “It’s just a matter of when, not if.”

Another reason for optimism is the renewed commitment from star defensive end Maxx Crosby. After an offseason filled with trade speculation involving the Baltimore Ravens, Myers believes any lingering frustration has disappeared.

“I think it’s all water under the bridge,” Myers said. “He seems like he’s in a really good place.”

Rather than dwelling on the failed trade talks, Crosby has embraced the Raiders’ aggressive offseason, including key additions on both sides of the ball. Myers expects the All-Pro pass rusher to channel that motivation into another dominant season.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – DECEMBER 14: Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks on during warmups before the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on December 14, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

“I feel bad for whoever lines up against him Week 1,” Myers joked.

The Raiders also addressed one of their biggest weaknesses by overhauling the secondary. Myers plans to closely monitor whether the influx of young defensive backs can finally create the turnovers the defense has lacked for years.

“I live in the world that DBs win games,” Myers said.

On offense, Myers believes success ultimately hinges on establishing an identity under head coach Klint Kubiak. Last season, Las Vegas never consistently found one, but he expects that to change.

“I do believe for the first time in a long time the Raiders will have an identity on offense,” Myers said.

That identity will also depend on improved offensive line play to unlock running back Ashton Jeanty while allowing All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers to thrive in Kubiak’s system.

Although Myers isn’t predicting an immediate playoff breakthrough, he believes Raider Nation has every reason to be encouraged.

After years of uncertainty, Las Vegas finally has leadership, direction and a long-term plan centered around Mendoza, giving the franchise its strongest foundation in years.

Check out the full conversation at the top of the page or by heading over to the Sactown Sports YouTube channel.

Listen to and watch Sactown Sports’ The Matt & Kayla Show with Matt George & Kayla Anderson, airing weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PT on Sactown Sports.

More NFL content from Sactown Sports

• 49ers Training Camp: Health, Brock Purdy & the Aging Core Take Center Stage

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• Faithful Flashbacks #39: Bill Walsh Steps Away

Upcoming Las Vegas Raiders Schedule

• Late July 2026 – NFL Training Camps open
• Sunday, September 13th – vs. Miami Dolphins (Season Opener) – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, September 20th – @ Los Angeles Chargers – 1:05 pm PT
• Sunday, September 27th – @ New Orleans Saints – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, October 4th – vs. Kansas City Chiefs – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, October 11th – @ New England Patriots – 10:00 am PT

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