Fernando Mendoza will get brutal NFL welcome after Kirk Cousins trade
The Las Vegas Raiders have traded veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings, clearing the way for rookie Fernando Mendoza to start. Mendoza is set to make his first career start against the Seattle Seahawks following a strong preseason and development period.
Why it matters
This move marks a significant strategic shift for the Raiders as they transition to a younger quarterback to lead the franchise's future.
Hear this story Fernandomania has officially begun in the desert.
With the Las Vegas Raiders trading quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings before Tuesday’s NFL trade deadline, Las Vegas is expected to turn to Fernando Mendoza , the No. 1 pick in the draft earlier this year, under center.
Mendoza is slated to make his first career start against the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks at home on Sunday, Nov. 15 (4:05 ET).
Mendoza’s lone regular-season action came during his debut, at the end of a Week 4 road loss to the New England Patriots on Oct. 11. He finished 6-for-8 passing for 48 yards. General manager John Spytek confirmed that Mendoza will be the team's starter moving forward during a news conference Nov. 10.
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