Is the clock ticking? Kirk Cousins addresses the growing threat of Fernando Mendoza

The Las Vegas Raiders went from excitement to uncertainty in a matter of weeks. After a promising start to the season, the team has entered a downward spiral and suffered its fourth consecutive loss after falling to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 7 .

The defense continued to show major issues, but the offense failed to provide many answers as well. Kirk Cousins threw two touchdown passes, although both came when the game was already virtually decided and could not change the outcome.

While the veteran quarterback has had some positive moments this season, his lack of mobility has become a limitation for Las Vegas’ offense. As a result, the possibility of the franchise handing the keys to rookie Fernando Mendoza is gaining momentum as the team searches for a spark.

Cousins, however, made it clear that he would not resist if the Raiders believe a change is what’s best for the organization.

“If I’m not the best option, then I don’t want to be out there either,” Cousins said when asked about the possibility of the team replacing him in the starting lineup with Mendoza. “I want our football team to have the best chance to win games. If the first OTA, that had become apparent, I would’ve been the first one to say, ‘Yeah, you can’t play me.’ So, nothing changes. The organization will do what they feel is best, but I feel that Fernando’s done a great job and has a bright future ahead. I’m gonna try to go out there and play as well as I possibly can to help us win and give him a great example to learn from until he does go out there eventually.”

Could Kirk Cousins become a trade candidate?

If Las Vegas decides to move forward with Fernando Mendoza as the starter, it could open the door for a potential Kirk Cousins trade before the deadline.

The 38-year-old quarterback can still be an attractive option for teams searching for stability at the position due to injuries or inconsistent play. His experience and ability to lead an offense could make him an intriguing piece on the trade market.

The New York Giants , Minnesota Vikings , and even the Cleveland Browns could emerge as possible destinations that evaluate the situation.

Inside the organization, there is an understanding that Cousins is unlikely to be the long-term answer at quarterback. His arrival was always viewed as a short-term solution, so a strong offer involving draft capital could push the Raiders toward a major decision and officially hand control of the offense to Mendoza.

The Raiders are running out of time

The matchup against the Rams appeared to be the perfect opportunity to end their losing streak. Los Angeles entered the game after two straight losses and dealing with significant injury issues, but Las Vegas failed to take advantage.

Beyond the final score, the defeat exposed the problems affecting the team on both sides of the ball. The offense lacked rhythm, while the defense was unable to slow down a team that also entered the game with questions.

Defensive coordinator Rob Leonard , who created optimism after a strong start to the season, is beginning to face criticism over the lack of adjustments and the unit’s inconsistency.

With pressure mounting, the Raiders need an immediate response against the New York Jets in Week 8 . Another loss could accelerate major decisions within the franchise and push the quarterback change debate into the spotlight, with Fernando Mendoza becoming the center of attention.