Raiders coach Kubiak keeps quarterback competition open with one week left in preseason

Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak has indicated that the starting quarterback competition remains undecided, with one week of preseason games still to come. The decision comes after the Raiders defeated the Houston Texans 22-20 on Thursday at Reliant Stadium, a game in which veteran Kirk Cousins was rested.

Kubiak stated that he is not prepared to name a starter for the regular season, emphasising a governance approach that prioritises continuous evaluation over early confirmation. "We got another week. I don't want anyone to be comfortable in their job," Kubiak said. "It should always be that way for all positions. So, let's keep going."

Cousins, who has played only one drive in two preseason games, was among several starters who sat out the contest. Defensive end Maxx Crosby, running back Ashton Jeanty, tight end Brock Bowers, and left tackle Kolton Miller also watched from the sideline. Kubiak explained that the team treated Tuesday’s joint practice as a game for some players, which led to the decision to rest the core group.

Rookie Fernando Mendoza started the first half, completing eight of 15 passes for 86 yards and an interception. His performance included a 22-yard completion to wide receiver Jalen Nailor, one of the only projected starters to play. Mendoza acknowledged the need for improvement, particularly in pocket movement, noting that he must step up or side to side to gain more time.

Aidan O’Connell took over for the final two quarters, recording 166 passing yards and scoring the go-ahead rushing touchdown in the final seconds of the fourth quarter. Mendoza noted that the coaching staff outlined a plan to keep the competition internal for the first three weeks of the preseason, describing his first start as a significant learning experience.

The game highlighted both the potential and the risks of the current roster. Mendoza threw a pick-six to linebacker Wade Woodaz on the opening drive, who returned the ball 80 yards for a touchdown. Mendoza admitted the throw was not good and that he and the receiver were not on the same page, a moment that underscores the small margin for error in the National Football League.