Klint Kubiak selects Kirk Cousins as Raiders starting QB for opener against Miami

Kirk Cousins will be the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders in their season opener against Miami on September 13, according to coach Klint Kubiak. Cousins, who enters his 15th season, was signed to a two-year deal worth $20 million with $8.7 million guaranteed. He will join three other quarterbacks on the team, including rookie and No. 1 overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza.

Kubiak praised Cousins' offseason work and expects him to lead the offense while also mentoring Mendoza, who has experience in Kubiak's system and had a successful 2022 season with the Vikings. Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner, is still adapting to the NFL and will likely start games in a support role until he gains more experience.

Running back Ashton Jeanty, who suffered an injury in practice, is expected to be ready for the opener, with rookie Mike Washington Jr. stepping in if needed. Defensive end Keyron Crawford, who had an Achilles injury, will miss the season.