Updated

Updated · Raiders.com · Jun 22

Raiders Stage 2026 Media Day as July 23 Training Camp Opens 32-team preseason countdown

Updated

Updated · Raiders.com · Jun 22

Raiders Stage 2026 Media Day as July 23 Training Camp Opens 32-team preseason countdown

Q: Will the Raiders' big bet on veteran Kirk Cousins delay the debut of their number one draft pick, Fernando Mendoza?

Yes. All signs point to Kirk Cousins opening the 2026 season as the Raiders’ starter, which would delay Fernando Mendoza’s debut at least in the short term. The clearest evidence is the Raiders’ own approach. Coach Klint Kubiak has said the ideal plan is not to start Mendoza immediately and to let him learn behind a veteran. Cousins, who knows Kubiak’s system from their Minnesota ties, has been taking the first-team reps in offseason work, while Mendoza has been brought along more gradually. Kubiak has publicly praised Cousins’ professionalism and leadership, signaling trust in him to steady a rebuilding team. That does not mean Mendoza is being sidelined long term. The Raiders used the No. 1 overall pick on him after his Heisman-winning season, and multiple reports identify him as the franchise quarterback. Cousins appears to be a bridge option, not a permanent answer. The organization’s goal seems to be to protect Mendoza early, especially with a first-year head coach, a young roster, and a difficult schedule. The real question is how long the delay lasts. Training camp opens in late July, followed by three preseason games in August, which will shape the timeline. If Cousins plays well, Mendoza may have to wait several weeks; some outside projections suggest a possible debut around Week 6. If the Raiders struggle or Mendoza accelerates quickly, that timetable could move up. For now, though, the Raiders’ plan is clearly patience.

3 articles · Updated · Raiders.com · Jun 22

Las Vegas Raiders released photos from their 2026 Media Day, featuring players including Kirk Cousins, Maxx Crosby, Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty ahead of the new season.
July 23 marks the club's first key date, when rookies report to training camp in Henderson, Nevada; veterans follow on July 28.
August brings three preseason checkpoints: Arizona on Aug. 13, a joint practice with Houston on Aug. 18, and a Texans game on Aug. 20 before San Francisco visits on Aug. 27.
Aug. 30 is the NFL deadline for teams to trim rosters to 53 players, setting the stage for Las Vegas' Sept. 13 opener against the Miami Dolphins.