Why Raiders’ Kirk Cousins being best at specific ‘s**t’ makes him perfect Fernando Mendoza mentor

Raiders fans have many reasons to feel optimistic as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, particularly regarding the quarterback position. With the first overall pick likely reserved for Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, veteran Kirk Cousins has already set a positive tone for the upcoming season.

Cousins recently told head coach Klint Kubiak that “the best player needs to play” in 2026, regardless of who that may be.

According to ESPN’s Ryan McFadden, Cousins emphasized that if he is not the best option to help the team win, he does not want to be on the field, and this demonstrates his willingness to mentor the Raiders’ future franchise quarterback.

This mentorship is expected to be an exemplary example of professional preparation.

Reporting from Tom Pelissero on X reveals that several league scouts and executives have started referring to the 6-foot-4, 236-pound Mendoza as “Tall Kirk Cousins” because of his robotic, structured, and highly accurate pocket-passing style.

Pelissero shared insights from an NFC coordinator who explained why Cousins is the ideal teacher for the Heisman winner:

“Kirk’s the best at that — mechanically, thought process, knowing the system.”

Since Mendoza is transitioning from a run-pass option-heavy college scheme to Kubiak’s under-center offense, Cousins’ ability to effectively “coach the system” is considered an invaluable asset.

While scouts note that Mendoza may not be an elite athlete, they praise his mental toughness, describing him as “tough as sh**” with “legitimate ice in his veins.”

Rich Gannon recently commented on the significance of this pairing, calling it a “wise” decision. Gannon pointed out that while Cousins’ previous stint in Atlanta was overshadowed by the unexpected drafting of Michael Penix Jr., the veteran now enters Las Vegas with his eyes wide open.

By providing the undefeated national champion the opportunity to develop behind a four-time Pro Bowler, the Raiders are ensuring their new “franchise quarterback” has the best possible foundation for NFL success.

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