Russell Wilson stops the hype around Fernando Mendoza and backs Kirk Cousins’ Raiders resurgence
irk Cousins has changed the outlook in Las Vegas, and Russell Wilson believes the Raiders veteran could be in line for one of the NFL’s biggest individual honors.
Los Las Vegas Raiders have become one of the biggest surprises of the early 2026 NFL season. With a perfect 2-0 record, the team coached by Klint Kubiak has shown promising signs amid its rebuilding process, earning wins over the Miami Dolphins and the Los Angeles Chargers .
One of the main reasons behind this exciting start is Kirk Cousins , who arrived in Las Vegas this offseason with 15 years of NFL experience and the mission of bringing stability to the quarterback position. Although the franchise also selected Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draf t, all indications were that Cousins would begin the season as the starter, and so far, he has delivered beyond expectations.
Kirk Cousins impresses with strong start in Las Vegas
The veteran quarterback delivered an efficient performance in Week 1 against Miami , completing 21 of 30 passes for 160 yards , three touchdowns, and two interceptions. However, it was in the road win over the Chargers where he showed his best form.
Against Los Angeles , Cousins finished with 19 completions on 29 attempts, 253 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception, while posting a 113 passer rating . With that performance, he joined Ken Stabler as one of only two quarterbacks in Raiders history to throw at least three touchdowns in each of his first two starts with the franchise.
His play has not gone unnoticed around the NFL. Former quarterback Russell Wilso n even made a bold prediction, saying Cousins could become a candidate to win the Comeback Player of the Year award.
“Kirk has gone through a lot over the past few years, and he’s handled everything very well. He has responded in a great way, and that’s what this game is about: continuing to move forward and having that determination,” Wilson said on CBS Sports ’ ‘Set, Hut!’.
The former NFL star was even more direct:
“Could Kirk Cousins win Comeback Player of the Year? I’m saying it right now: I think Kirk Cousins wins that award.”
Cousins’ resurgence changes Raiders’ plans
Before the season began, many expected Fernando Mendoza to eventually receive an opportunity to become the starter during 2026. However, Cousins’ strong performances in the opening weeks have completely changed the outlook.
As long as he maintains this level of play and Las Vegas continues winning, the veteran quarterback will have a strong case to remain in charge of the offense.
After a period filled with doubts and questions about his future, Cousins is proving that he still has what it takes to lead an NFL team. For now, his arrival in Las Vegas has transformed a rebuilding project into a much more promising contender than many expected.
