Locked On NFL – Daily Podcast On The National Football League Kirk Cousins SET TO START for Las Vegas Raiders OVER Fernando Mendoza & Ty Simpson's BEST DRAFT FIT
Apr 3, 2026
A big quarterback signing in Las Vegas reshapes a top draft pick's timeline. Debate over whether the veteran was brought in to start now or mentor the rookie. Discussion of Ty Simpson's ideal landing spots and why a sit-and-develop team could help him. A look at Cleveland's QB battle and why one passer may be favored to lead next season.
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Raiders Signaling A Delayed Start For Their No.1 Pick
- The Raiders signing Kirk Cousins suggests a plan to delay a No.1 pick rather than immediately start Fernando Mendoza.
- Tyler Rowland argues a top pick should start right away and benching him mirrors failed veteran-first approaches like Alex Smith/Patrick Mahomes comparisons.
Use A Veteran Quarterback As A Mentor
- Use Kirk Cousins as a mentor and controlled starter if necessary to protect Mendoza's development.
- Nick Cattles notes Cousins' leadership, prior work ethic, and system familiarity make him suited to guide a rookie in Las Vegas.
Contract Details Create An Escape Hatch
- The structure and guarantees of Cousins' contract create ambiguity about long-term plans.
- Tyler Rowland warns $20M guaranteed plus team options could become an expensive escape hatch if the Raiders opt to keep Cousins as a starter.