After the Raiders crashed to a brutal 35-21 defeat against the Ras on Sunday, making it four straight losses following their promising 3-0 start, quarterback Kirk Cousins laid it all out on the table for reporters. He didn’t mince words, telling everyone, “If I’m not the best option, I don’t want to be out there.” Woah. That’s a gut punch of a quote, right?
The Heat Is On in Vegas
You can bet the pressure is absolutely boiling over in Vegas right now. When you start 3-0, then drop four in a row, suddenly every decision gets scrutinized. The big question swirling around isn’t just about what went wrong, but who is going to be under center next. The buzz is all about rookie first-rounder Fernando Mendoza. He was the first overall pick, remember? And now, with the team in a spiral, everyone’s wondering if his time to step up is finally here.
Cousins, responding to the chatter about Mendoza potentially taking over, was surprisingly direct. He said his approach hasn’t changed a bit since March or April. “Nothing changes in the sense that if I’m not the best option then I don’t want to be out there, either.” That’s a veteran owning the situation, even if it’s tough to hear. He’s all about giving the team the absolute best shot to win games.
Cousins’ Veteran Stance
It’s clear Cousins has been thinking about this. He even said that if it had become apparent in the very first OTA that he wasn’t the best option, he would have been the first one to say, “Yeah, you can’t play me.” Talk about putting the team first. He’s not shying away from the truth, even if it means acknowledging that a changing of the guard could be on the horizon.
He’s also giving serious props to the young gun. Cousins added that Mendoza has “done a great job and has a great future ahead.” He’s trying to go out there, play his absolute best, help the team win, and give Mendoza “a great example to learn from, until he does go out there.” It’s a professional move, no doubt. But ultimately, Cousins knows, “the organization will do what they feel is best.”
What Happens Next?
With a quote like that from your starting QB and four straight losses piling up, you know the Raiders’ brass is talking. Is it time to hand the keys to Fernando Mendoza? Cousins’ words make you think that he’d respect the decision if they did. The stakes are huge for the Raiders’ season. This isn’t just about one game; it’s about the entire direction of their franchise. We’ll be watching closely to see if Mendoza steps onto the field and when that moment might arrive.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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