Raiders’ Kirk Cousins and Maxx Crosby Suspended, Fernando Mendoza Takes Lead
In Henderson, Nevada, Las Vegas Raiders’ quarterback Kirk Cousins and defensive end Maxx Crosby were removed from team drills during practice on Saturday. Their suspension followed an altercation the previous day, which gave rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza his first chance to lead the starting offense.
Coach Klint Kubiak stated, “We have very clear expectations about how we want to practice, how you go about our business. We violated that yesterday, so we held those guys out. That’s all I’m going to say about it. We addressed it with the team and we’re moving on.”
The altercation occurred when Cousins, upset after Crosby tipped his pass, charged at the larger defensive end. Teammates separated the two. The Raiders will resume practice on Monday, providing an opportunity for Cousins and Crosby to face off again under calmer conditions.
Mendoza Shines and Struggles in Practice
With Cousins sidelined on Saturday, Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner from Indiana and first overall pick in the NFL draft, showcased his skills. He connected for touchdown passes with tight ends Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer, along with wide receiver Tre Tucker. Despite some missteps, Mendoza demonstrated agility by avoiding defenders to make plays.
Quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan commented, “Fernando continues to improve. From spring to the start of camp, there were specific areas we wanted him to improve, and he has. He’s not repeating mistakes, which is always a good thing. It’s a long process, and we’re pleased with his development.”
Kubiak indicated earlier that Mendoza would eventually lead the first-team offense during camp. Mendoza’s opportunity came ahead of the Raiders’ preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday. Although Kubiak has not decided on the quarterback lineup, Mendoza is expected to play early, possibly starting.
Cousins remains the likely starter for the regular season. However, Kubiak has not committed long term, suggesting Mendoza might eventually take the reins.
Progress and Challenges
Sullivan noted Mendoza’s improvement in visual and verbal communication and taking snaps under center. Sullivan said, “He’s going to continue to work on and we want him to still want him to be even better. But we’re pleased with where that’s at right now.”
Injury Updates
Wide receiver Jalen Nailor returned to the field after missing Friday’s practice due to an unspecified injury. Meanwhile, defensive ends Kwity Paye and Keyron Crawford, as well as wide receiver Dont’e Thornton Jr., remained absent.
Right guard contender Caleb Rogers suffered a left arm or elbow injury but later returned to practice. “I feel great,” Rogers stated without providing details.
For more updates, fans can visit AP NFL News.