KirkCousins

News: 1 day agoHead coach Klint Kubiak said that Cousins will remain the Raiders' starting quarterback heading into Sunday's game against the Jets, Paul Gutierrez of the team's official site reports. "There is no controversy," Kubiak said. "He is playing at a very high level."

Spin: Though the Raiders have dropped four straight games to drop to 3-4 on the season, Kubiak reaffirmed his commitment to Cousins, who has done his part to keep the team competitive amid the losing streak. The veteran signal-caller leads the NFL with 16 touchdown passes and ranks third with 1,877 passing yards, with the Raiders' struggling defense (28.1 points allowed per game) and poor running game (3.0 yards per carry) having been the bigger culprits in the team's recent swoon. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Kubiak said that No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza is "going to play at some point," but the rookie looks like he'll have to wait at least one more week before seeing extended action while Cousins has directed a serviceable offense.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Cousins signed with the Raiders and will work as the team's starter to open the 2026 season ahead of No. 1 overall draft selection Fernando Mendoza. Cousins made eight starts for Atlanta last season and was not much of a fantasy option, averaging 12.5 fantasy points per game while reaching 18 points only once. The 38-year-old will be a bridge starter at best until Mendoza is ready and is no longer a threat with his legs (7 yards on 14 carries last season). He won't be a fantasy option, even when on the field. He should only be drafted late in superflex leagues.