Warren: Cousins may be Raiders’ QB1, but Mendoza is progressing

The Las Vegas Raiders are nearing the end of training camp with plenty of questions still surrounding their quarterback situation, Ashton Jeanty’s health, and several position battles.

The Athletic’s Sam Warren joined Sactown Sports’ Matt George and Kayla Anderson to provide an inside look at what he has seen from the Raiders throughout his first training camp covering the team.

One of the biggest storylines has been the development of first-overall pick Fernando Mendoza, whose most recent preseason stat line may not tell the whole story.

“I think Fernando’s stat line from the Texans game looks worse than it actually was,” Warren said.

HENDERSON, NEVADA – MAY 02: Fernando Mendoza #15 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks to pass during the team’s rookie minicamp at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Health Performance Center on May 02, 2026 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images)

Mendoza threw a pick-six, but Warren pointed out that the interception involved some miscommunication between Mendoza and fellow rookie Mike Washington Jr.

The quarterback also had opportunities wiped away by his receivers’ mistakes, including two plays involving Malik Benson.

“There was a drop by Malik Benson that would have gone for a big play, and then Malik also had a ball knocked out of his hands that would have been a third down conversion,” Warren said.

Warren was also encouraged by how Mendoza responded after the interception, particularly against a Texans defense that remains talented even without its starters playing.

“He responded well to that pick-six and getting back on track,” Warren said. “I think they’ve been pleased with his approach and his mindset so far.”

Despite Mendoza’s progress, Warren still expects Kirk Cousins to open the season as Las Vegas’ starter. The Raiders have emphasized the value of letting their rookie quarterback learn behind a veteran, and Cousins played only a handful of preseason drives.

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)

“It does seem like from everything that we’ve seen that it is Kirk’s job,” Warren said. “I would be surprised to see if Fernando is the Week One starter.”

Another major storyline is Jeanty’s ankle injury. While the initial scene looked concerning, Warren said the injury is not considered long-term, giving the Raiders reason for optimism heading into the regular season.

That could create an even bigger opportunity for Washington, who has impressed with his physical tools.

“I just think it’s the combination of size, strength, and speed that he possesses,” Warren said.

The biggest concern with Washington isn’t his rushing ability, but whether he can handle pass protection, assignments and the mental demands of being a lead back.

The Raiders also still have significant competition at right guard between Jackson Powers-Johnson and Caleb Rogers, while third-down defense remains an area needing improvement.

Still, Warren believes Las Vegas has done an excellent job protecting its players throughout camp, using walkthroughs and lighter practices around games. With the regular season approaching, the Raiders appear to be prioritizing getting their key players healthy to Week 1.

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

Upcoming Las Vegas Raiders 2026 Schedule

• 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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