Kirk Cousins’ time with the Las Vegas Raiders ended sooner than expected, but the veteran quarterback made sure his message had something more than a goodbye. After moving to the Minnesota Vikings at the NFL trade deadline on November 10, Cousins took a moment to acknowledge the team that gave him a home for the first nine games of the season. More importantly, he had a encouraging words for Fernando Mendoza, the rookie who was waiting for his chance to lead the Raiders.
Fernando Mendoza gets Kirk Cousins’ support
Cousins shared a picture with Mendoza on his Instagram story, along with a short message for the Raiders rookie.
“Thank you Raider Nation! Go get em @fernandomendoza,” he wrote, giving his former teammate his backing as the No. 1 overall pick prepared to take over the starting job.
Mendoza did not let the message go unanswered. He shared a screenshot of Cousins’ post on his own Instagram story, adding two folded-hands emojis and tagging the veteran quarterback.
Their bond showed how closely the two had worked together this season. Mendoza had previously spoken about the support he received from Cousins, praising the 38-year-old for answering his questions and helping him settle into the NFL.
“He’s playing at an MVP-caliber level, and him being so receptive to me, and answering all my questions, and looking out for me is super special,” Mendoza said on Sunday, according to The Athletic’s Michael Silver. “He’s stuck his neck out for me and really helped me along the way.”
Fernando Mendoza takes over as Raiders quarterback
The trade sent Cousins back to Minnesota in exchange for a 2027 third-round draft pick. The move gave the Vikings an experienced quarterback after injuries and inconsistent performances left them searching for answers at the position.
For Las Vegas, the deal cleared the way for Mendoza’s first NFL start. General manager John Spytek confirmed the decision, saying the rookie had worked hard and passed every test during his time with the organization.
Head coach Klint Kubiak backed that assessment, pointing to Mendoza’s practice performances and work habits as reasons the team felt comfortable handing him the job.
The rookie arrived in Las Vegas after winning the Heisman Trophy and leading Indiana to a national championship in 2025.He completed 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns during that college season. His first regular-season start will come against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 10. Cousins will begin his second stint with the Minnesota Vikings against the Green Bay Packers.
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