The Las Vegas Raiders have slotted rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza at No. 2 on their preliminary 2026 depth chart, positioning the top overall draft pick directly behind veteran starter Kirk Cousins, according to initial team configurations. According to FantasyNerds.com, the depth chart placement confirms the organization’s intention to begin the season with Cousins under center while bypassing an immediate quarterback competition between the veteran and the rookie.
Raiders Depth Chart Sets Kirk Cousins as Starter Over Rookie Fernando Mendoza
The initial Las Vegas depth chart contains no real surprises, with Kirk Cousins holding the primary starting role and Fernando Mendoza serving as the immediate backup. According to team reports, Aidan O’Connell is listed as the third-string quarterback following 17 starts across three seasons with the franchise. Undrafted rookie Jacob Clark out of Missouri State rounds out the group as the fourth-string option.
Did you know? Aidan O’Connell brings 17 career starts of NFL experience to the quarterback room, holding down the third-string spot behind Kirk Cousins and rookie Fernando Mendoza.
Bypassing Modern Trends in Early Quarterback Development
The decision to hold an uncompetitive quarterback setup cuts against the modern NFL approach of getting highly drafted signal-callers onto the field quickly. By installing Cousins as the unquestioned starter, the Raiders are taking a more traditional developmental route with Mendoza.
If Mendoza does not see playing time by the conclusion of the 2026 season, it will mark a significant development for a top overall selection. However, the more pressing issue for Las Vegas remains the overall roster talent available to compete within a top-heavy AFC West division. On paper, the squad faces a difficult path against divisional opponents, leaving the team to prove its capabilities once real games begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is listed as the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders?
Kirk Cousins is listed as the starting quarterback on the initial Raiders depth chart.
Where is rookie Fernando Mendoza placed on the depth chart?
Fernando Mendoza, the top overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, is listed as the primary backup to Kirk Cousins.
Who are the other quarterbacks on the Las Vegas roster?
Aidan O’Connell is listed as the third-string quarterback, and undrafted rookie Jacob Clark from Missouri State holds the fourth-string spot.
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