The NFL has officially turned its attention to the 2026 NFL Draft. The annual league meetings concluded Tuesday, and teams are now finalizing their draft boards.
That doesn’t necessarily mean teams have moved on from free agency. The Las Vegas Raiders were very active in the opening stages — and they aren’t done yet.
The Raiders are expected to draft Fernando Mendoza; however, they have also explored the veteran market. After missing out on Joe Flacco, reports indicate they have shifted their attention elsewhere.
Reunion for Kubiak?
Veteran free-agent quarterback Kirk Cousins has emerged as a leading candidate for the Silver and Black, according to reports. The Atlanta Falcons released Cousins in early March, and he has taken his time evaluating his next move.
The Falcons surprised Cousins when they selected Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, shortly after Cousins had signed a massive long-term contract.
In this scenario, Cousins would face very different expectations. He is no longer expected to serve as the long-term face of a franchise, but he could provide valuable mentorship for Mendoza.
A key connection in this situation is Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak, who served as Cousins’ offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach from 2019 to 2021.
Cousins enjoyed significant success under Kubiak, earning two Pro Bowl selections during that span. He could provide the veteran leadership Kubiak values — and perhaps even revive his career once again.
Kubiak also served as the offensive architect in Seattle when the Seahawks won the Super Bowl last year, helping Sam Darnold complete a career resurgence.
