Raiders Quarterback Decision
Raiders Coach Klint Kubiak Outlines Criteria for Starting Quarterback Fernando Mendoza
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The Raiders will let Fernando Mendoza's play—not the team's overall performance—decide when he takes over at quarterback, coach Klint Kubiak said. Winnipeg Free Press reported that Mendoza, a first-year QB, is likely to start as Kirk Cousins' backup when the season begins September 13 against Miami. The move signals confidence in Mendoza despite the Raiders' historically bad offense last year.
Las Vegas ranked dead last in the NFL with just 14.2 points and 245.2 yards per game last season. Yahoo Sports noted the team faces major offensive gaps: no proven offensive line, no true No. 1 wide receiver, and a potential rookie starting at running back after Ashton Jeanty got injured in practice.
Kubiak Commits to Merit-Based Evaluation
Coach Klint Kubiak made clear that Mendoza's path to the starting job depends entirely on his individual performance. Las Vegas Sun reported the team won't rush him onto the field just to fix the offense as a whole. This approach suggests the Raiders believe Mendoza has upside worth developing behind an established starter like Cousins.
Raiders' Offensive Line Remains a Major Weakness
The Raiders bolstered one piece by signing three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum to the richest contract ever for an interior lineman. Yet Audacy highlighted broader problems: the offensive line remains unproven overall, leaving any starting QB—rookie or veteran—vulnerable.
A Rookie Could Line Up at Running Back
Second-year back Ashton Jeanty's practice injury has forced the Raiders to consider starting a rookie at running back. Click on Detroit noted this adds to an already troubled offense. The team has no clear NFL-tested talent at that position, making it another question mark heading into the new season.
The NFL's Worst Offense Seeks Redemption
Last year, the Raiders put up the league's worst offensive numbers: 14.2 points and 245.2 yards per game. The Republic reported that with wide receiver depth questions and a shaky line, the 2024 offense could struggle early. Mendoza will have to prove himself in tough circumstances.
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