1 hr. ago
The Las Vegas Raiders received a troubling ***** sment of their wide receiver room entering the 2026 season, creating another concern for quarterbacks Fernando Mendoza and Kirk Cousins. A low ranking for the position group highlights the uncertainty surrounding an offense that will need reliable production from its pass catchers to find consistency.
The Raiders have spent the offseason attempting to build an offense capable of supporting multiple options at quarterback. Whether Mendoza earns meaningful opportunities or Cousins takes control of the offense, both players could face a difficult situation if the receiving corps cannot consistently create separation and finish plays.
Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) throws a pass during the game against the New Orleans Saints during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Injuries and uneven preseason performances have only added to the concern. Las Vegas has dealt with questions about the availability of promising young receivers, while the broader group has yet to establish the kind of dependable hierarchy that can give a quarterback confidence on critical downs.
The ranking also reflects the pressure facing the Raiders' offensive staff to get more from the talent already on the roster. Coaches have publicly challenged the receivers to raise their level, signaling that the organization understands the position could become a major obstacle if improvement does not arrive quickly.
#cousins #ranking
The Raiders have spent the offseason attempting to build an offense capable of supporting multiple options at quarterback. Whether Mendoza earns meaningful opportunities or Cousins takes control of the offense, both players could face a difficult situation if the receiving corps cannot consistently create separation and finish plays.
Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) throws a pass during the game against the New Orleans Saints during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Injuries and uneven preseason performances have only added to the concern. Las Vegas has dealt with questions about the availability of promising young receivers, while the broader group has yet to establish the kind of dependable hierarchy that can give a quarterback confidence on critical downs.
The ranking also reflects the pressure facing the Raiders' offensive staff to get more from the talent already on the roster. Coaches have publicly challenged the receivers to raise their level, signaling that the organization understands the position could become a major obstacle if improvement does not arrive quickly.
#cousins #ranking
9 hours ago
The Las Vegas Raiders aren't quite ready to give Fernando Mendoza the key to their franchise. However, the number one pick in the 2026 NFL Draft is expected to get to that point this season.
NFL teams have very different philosophies when it comes to starting rookie quarterbacks. Many franchises hand over the reigns to their highly-coveted players immediately, including Drake Maye and Caleb Williams.
Meanwhile, the Raiders do have precedent when it comes to taking things slow with their new QB. Klint Kubiak recently announced that Kirk Cousins will start Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins.
That puts Mendoza in the same category as Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Baker Mayfield when he was drafted first overall. The Cleveland Browns opted to keep Mayfield on the sidelines for the first week in 2018.
MORE: Raiders name starting quarterback for Week 1
#starting #first
NFL teams have very different philosophies when it comes to starting rookie quarterbacks. Many franchises hand over the reigns to their highly-coveted players immediately, including Drake Maye and Caleb Williams.
Meanwhile, the Raiders do have precedent when it comes to taking things slow with their new QB. Klint Kubiak recently announced that Kirk Cousins will start Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins.
That puts Mendoza in the same category as Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Baker Mayfield when he was drafted first overall. The Cleveland Browns opted to keep Mayfield on the sidelines for the first week in 2018.
MORE: Raiders name starting quarterback for Week 1
#starting #first
10 hours ago
In a much-anticipated decision, the Las Vegas Raiders named Kirk Cousins their starting quarterback for Week 1.
Raiders coach Klint Kubiak announced the news Wednesday, Sept. 2.
"He played really good football," Kubiak said, via the team's official website. "I'm really happy with all three of our quarterbacks. Kirk's had a really good offseason, very good camp and he's earned it."
Cousins will start the Raiders' season opener against the Miami Dolphins in Las Vegas.
"Where I've seen him grow is in his leadership and his command," Kubiak said of Cousins.
#raiders #kubiak #week #wednesday
Raiders coach Klint Kubiak announced the news Wednesday, Sept. 2.
"He played really good football," Kubiak said, via the team's official website. "I'm really happy with all three of our quarterbacks. Kirk's had a really good offseason, very good camp and he's earned it."
Cousins will start the Raiders' season opener against the Miami Dolphins in Las Vegas.
"Where I've seen him grow is in his leadership and his command," Kubiak said of Cousins.
#raiders #kubiak #week #wednesday
11 hours ago
In what has been expected for months, Kirk Cousins will be the Las Vegas Raiders starting quarterback in Week 1 when they host the Miami Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium.
New Las Vegas coach Klint Kubiak made the announcement Wednesday that Cousins and not rookie, No. 1 overall pick, Fernando Mendoza, will lead the team to start the season.
This has long been the expectation. Both Kubiak and Las Vegas general manager John Spytek have said, in a perfect world, they wouldn't rush a rookie quarterback onto the field. Raiders' part owner Tom Brady reportedly also was in favor of not of playing Mendoza early.
Cousins, 38, made the decision easy as he had a strong training camp and preseason. The 15th year veteran has played for Kubiak in the past and should give the Raiders a chance to win while Mendoza continues to prepare to start his career.
The Mendoza era is coming, but first, it will be Cousins under center for the Silver and Black.
#raiders
New Las Vegas coach Klint Kubiak made the announcement Wednesday that Cousins and not rookie, No. 1 overall pick, Fernando Mendoza, will lead the team to start the season.
This has long been the expectation. Both Kubiak and Las Vegas general manager John Spytek have said, in a perfect world, they wouldn't rush a rookie quarterback onto the field. Raiders' part owner Tom Brady reportedly also was in favor of not of playing Mendoza early.
Cousins, 38, made the decision easy as he had a strong training camp and preseason. The 15th year veteran has played for Kubiak in the past and should give the Raiders a chance to win while Mendoza continues to prepare to start his career.
The Mendoza era is coming, but first, it will be Cousins under center for the Silver and Black.
#raiders
11 hours ago
Fernando Mendoza's NFL debut will have to wait.
The Las Vegas Raiders have named veteran Kirk Cousins their starting quarterback for their Week 1 matchup with the Miami Dolphins, head coach Klint Kubiak announced on Wednesday morning.
The decision is something that has long been expected, even after the Raiders selected Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft back in April.
Barring a late change, Cousins will start his first game with the franchise since his exit with the Atlanta Falcons last season. The Raiders signed Cousins to a one-year deal earlier this year with the expectation that he would open the season in the starting role and serve as a bit of a mentor to Mendoza while he adjusts to the league. Cousins went 5-3 as a starter last season with the Atlanta Falcons, and threw for 1,721 yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions.
Cousins was declared the starting quarterback at the start of training camp, too. Head coach Klint Kubiak had plenty of praise for Cousins, who is now with his fourth team in the league, back in July.
#raiders #klint #atlanta
The Las Vegas Raiders have named veteran Kirk Cousins their starting quarterback for their Week 1 matchup with the Miami Dolphins, head coach Klint Kubiak announced on Wednesday morning.
The decision is something that has long been expected, even after the Raiders selected Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft back in April.
Barring a late change, Cousins will start his first game with the franchise since his exit with the Atlanta Falcons last season. The Raiders signed Cousins to a one-year deal earlier this year with the expectation that he would open the season in the starting role and serve as a bit of a mentor to Mendoza while he adjusts to the league. Cousins went 5-3 as a starter last season with the Atlanta Falcons, and threw for 1,721 yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions.
Cousins was declared the starting quarterback at the start of training camp, too. Head coach Klint Kubiak had plenty of praise for Cousins, who is now with his fourth team in the league, back in July.
#raiders #klint #atlanta
12 hours ago
Two key Raiders are not participating in Wednesday's practice.
According to multiple reporters on the scene, quarterback Kirk Cousins and running back Ashton Jeanty are among those sidelined in the day's session.
While Jeanty is dealing with an ankle injury, the reason for Cousins' absence is unknown. The quarterback did appear on the field before the end of the media's viewing window in a red jersey and a hat, which could be an indication that he's receiving a rest day.
Head coach Klint Kubiak is expected to address the media after practice.
With Cousins not participating, rookie Fernando Mendoza handled the QB duties for the first-team offense. Mendoza is expected to receive much fewer reps with the regular season beginning, so this could be a chance for him to further his development before the team dives deeper into preparing to play the Dolphins on Sept. 13.
#participating #team #according
According to multiple reporters on the scene, quarterback Kirk Cousins and running back Ashton Jeanty are among those sidelined in the day's session.
While Jeanty is dealing with an ankle injury, the reason for Cousins' absence is unknown. The quarterback did appear on the field before the end of the media's viewing window in a red jersey and a hat, which could be an indication that he's receiving a rest day.
Head coach Klint Kubiak is expected to address the media after practice.
With Cousins not participating, rookie Fernando Mendoza handled the QB duties for the first-team offense. Mendoza is expected to receive much fewer reps with the regular season beginning, so this could be a chance for him to further his development before the team dives deeper into preparing to play the Dolphins on Sept. 13.
#participating #team #according
1 day ago
Late Tupac Shakur's family expressed themselves recently following a guilty verdict that they have waited almost three decades to hear.
After the jury convicted Duane "Keffe D" Davis for the rap icon's 1996 fatal shooting, Tupac's family disclosed that they are both "elated and relieved" by the decision. However, the family made it clear that they do not see the verdict as the final chapter in Tupac's story.
The emotional statement comes one day after The Blast reported that members of the Shakur family were inside the Las Vegas courtroom when the verdict was announced. Now, the family is opening up about what the moment meant to them while also paying tribute to Tupac's late mother, Afeni Shakur.
The US Sun / MEGA
In a statement obtained by ABC News, one of Tupac's cousins, known as Aiysha Obafemi, who was at the court during the ruling, shared how the family reacted to the verdict.
#late #statement
After the jury convicted Duane "Keffe D" Davis for the rap icon's 1996 fatal shooting, Tupac's family disclosed that they are both "elated and relieved" by the decision. However, the family made it clear that they do not see the verdict as the final chapter in Tupac's story.
The emotional statement comes one day after The Blast reported that members of the Shakur family were inside the Las Vegas courtroom when the verdict was announced. Now, the family is opening up about what the moment meant to them while also paying tribute to Tupac's late mother, Afeni Shakur.
The US Sun / MEGA
In a statement obtained by ABC News, one of Tupac's cousins, known as Aiysha Obafemi, who was at the court during the ruling, shared how the family reacted to the verdict.
#late #statement
1 day ago
Most of Prince Harry's family has remained publicly silent following his and Meghan Markle's return to the UK, including Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice. The former working royal once maintained a close bond with his cousins, but sources recently told ****** o! that the relationship is now virtually nonexistent.
"Harry and Meghan are not so close to Beatrice and Eugenie anymore, and Harry did not see Eugenie over the summer in Portugal," an insider told the outlet. "Harry has very few friends left from before. They're going to have to make some serious social inroads and gatherings to get back in the fold."
More from StyleCaster
Harry & Meghan Reportedly 'Embarrassed' by Oprah & Tyler Perry's Snubs Before UK Move as Neighbors Call Out Their Alleged Cold Behavior
Harry & Meghan's UK Move 'Could Last Just 6 Months' as Sources Claim the Royals 'Won't Help' if Anything Goes Wrong
#sources #prince
"Harry and Meghan are not so close to Beatrice and Eugenie anymore, and Harry did not see Eugenie over the summer in Portugal," an insider told the outlet. "Harry has very few friends left from before. They're going to have to make some serious social inroads and gatherings to get back in the fold."
More from StyleCaster
Harry & Meghan Reportedly 'Embarrassed' by Oprah & Tyler Perry's Snubs Before UK Move as Neighbors Call Out Their Alleged Cold Behavior
Harry & Meghan's UK Move 'Could Last Just 6 Months' as Sources Claim the Royals 'Won't Help' if Anything Goes Wrong
#sources #prince
4 days ago
The Las Vegas Raiders drafted Fernando Mendoza with plans for him to take the reins as the starting quarterback. John Spytek and Klint Kubiak believe in the young quarterback and what he can do for the franchise in the future.
When it comes to putting him on the football field, the team wants to make sure he is ready. That's why the team brought in Kirk Cousins as a stopgap quarterback until they feel he is fully up to speed. During the preseason, Mendoza had ups and downs, which is why they thought Cousins should start early.
The question now becomes: when does Mendoza get the starting job? The number of games he plays this year will help him reach his potential earlier, where he can learn while the bullets are flying.
In this week's SB Nation Reacts, we ask Raider Nation if Mendoza will start 10 games. Raider Nation doesn't have faith it will happen, with only 25% agreeing he will start 10 games.
If Mendoza does get into the starting lineup, you would expect him to have the job for the rest of the season. Fans expect to wait a long time for that to happen.
#starting #quarterback
When it comes to putting him on the football field, the team wants to make sure he is ready. That's why the team brought in Kirk Cousins as a stopgap quarterback until they feel he is fully up to speed. During the preseason, Mendoza had ups and downs, which is why they thought Cousins should start early.
The question now becomes: when does Mendoza get the starting job? The number of games he plays this year will help him reach his potential earlier, where he can learn while the bullets are flying.
In this week's SB Nation Reacts, we ask Raider Nation if Mendoza will start 10 games. Raider Nation doesn't have faith it will happen, with only 25% agreeing he will start 10 games.
If Mendoza does get into the starting lineup, you would expect him to have the job for the rest of the season. Fans expect to wait a long time for that to happen.
#starting #quarterback
6 days ago
Ben Roethlisberger's arm ligaments turned al dente sometime around 2019. The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense behind him remained strong. That juxtaposition created the broken path that leads us to 2026. That's the year where the Steelers, in a league where most teams will have only two quarterbacks on their active roster, plan to keep four passers at the 53-man cutdown day.
That's what first-year head coach Mike McCarthy told ESPN's Brooke Pryor to expect when rosters as finalized August 30 at 6 p.m. ET. His QB1 will be a soon-to-be 43-year-old Aaron Rodgers, heavily diminished from his MVP peak. His veteran backup will be Mason Rudolph, exiled to Nashville in 2024 to bring his special brand of underwhelming football to the Tennessee ***** ans before reuniting with the team last year. Behind them, for now, is the duo of mid-round draft picks Pittsburgh picked up as lottery tickets in hopes they may have dug a diamond from a coal mine: Will Howard (sixth round, 2026) and Drew Allar (third round, 2026).
The need for four quarterbacks can be traced back to the end of the Roethlisberger era. This team was too competent to fall to a top 10 draft pick as the two-time Super Bowl champion's arm weakened and his average target distance dropped to league lows. Stopgap solutions followed; Mitchell Trubisky. Kenny Pickett. Rudolph. Russell Wilson. Justin Fields. Now, it's Rodgers.
When Pickett, the first quarterback selected in one of the worst quarterback drafts of all time, failed, the Steelers bought in to retread passers just good enough to keep the team at slightly above average. Playoff appearances followed. Playoff wins did not. Between weak draft position and the franchise's general distaste for big free agent splashes -- missing out on Kirk Cousins (good!) and Sam Darnold (not as good!) -- Pittsburgh went from renting to owning its place in contender's limbo.
2026 has marked the franchise's desire to stay there. Mike Tomlin, architect of zero losing seasons in 19 years at the helm, parted ways with the team. Rather than start fresh with a rising young head coach, the team hired Mike McCarthy, a man with a 126-80-2 record in the regular season since 2011 and a 6-9 playoff record. It brought back Rodgers, who can no longer use his legs to extend plays and has been forced into a diet of short, quick passes to avoid pressure even as his otherworldly arm talent remains in flashes of "remember when?" And, importantly, rather than casting his lot with Howard and Allar in case of injury and letting the chips fall where they may, McCarthy is keeping Rudolph as QB2.
#team #year #mike #rodgers
That's what first-year head coach Mike McCarthy told ESPN's Brooke Pryor to expect when rosters as finalized August 30 at 6 p.m. ET. His QB1 will be a soon-to-be 43-year-old Aaron Rodgers, heavily diminished from his MVP peak. His veteran backup will be Mason Rudolph, exiled to Nashville in 2024 to bring his special brand of underwhelming football to the Tennessee ***** ans before reuniting with the team last year. Behind them, for now, is the duo of mid-round draft picks Pittsburgh picked up as lottery tickets in hopes they may have dug a diamond from a coal mine: Will Howard (sixth round, 2026) and Drew Allar (third round, 2026).
The need for four quarterbacks can be traced back to the end of the Roethlisberger era. This team was too competent to fall to a top 10 draft pick as the two-time Super Bowl champion's arm weakened and his average target distance dropped to league lows. Stopgap solutions followed; Mitchell Trubisky. Kenny Pickett. Rudolph. Russell Wilson. Justin Fields. Now, it's Rodgers.
When Pickett, the first quarterback selected in one of the worst quarterback drafts of all time, failed, the Steelers bought in to retread passers just good enough to keep the team at slightly above average. Playoff appearances followed. Playoff wins did not. Between weak draft position and the franchise's general distaste for big free agent splashes -- missing out on Kirk Cousins (good!) and Sam Darnold (not as good!) -- Pittsburgh went from renting to owning its place in contender's limbo.
2026 has marked the franchise's desire to stay there. Mike Tomlin, architect of zero losing seasons in 19 years at the helm, parted ways with the team. Rather than start fresh with a rising young head coach, the team hired Mike McCarthy, a man with a 126-80-2 record in the regular season since 2011 and a 6-9 playoff record. It brought back Rodgers, who can no longer use his legs to extend plays and has been forced into a diet of short, quick passes to avoid pressure even as his otherworldly arm talent remains in flashes of "remember when?" And, importantly, rather than casting his lot with Howard and Allar in case of injury and letting the chips fall where they may, McCarthy is keeping Rudolph as QB2.
#team #year #mike #rodgers
6 days ago
LAS VEGAS—Outside of winning, the goal for the Las Vegas Raiders in this final preseason game was simple: find solutions.
With many positional battles coming down to the final days of the preseason, this marked the last opportunity for players to prove just where they fit into the Raiders' plans for 2026. Everything from starting jobs to roster spots was on the line, forcing the Raiders to leave everything out on the field.
While the Raiders would come out on the losing end of an 18-12 kicking battle against the San Francisco 49ers, they were able to get some questions answered about themselves.
First off, Klint Kubiak poured cold water on the idea of naming a starting quarterback for Week One. However, the performances from the game against San Francisco would suggest what the decision will be.
Kirk Cousins put together a performance that Fernando Mendoza described as "ruthlessly efficient," going 8-for-11 with 51 passing yards. Meanwhile, Mendoza himself ended up struggling with a 7-for-14 line for 57 yards. The first overall pick was also charged with an interception that deflected off the hands of Jalen Nailor to 49ers linebacker Tatum Bethune and two sacks.
#everything #final #preseason
With many positional battles coming down to the final days of the preseason, this marked the last opportunity for players to prove just where they fit into the Raiders' plans for 2026. Everything from starting jobs to roster spots was on the line, forcing the Raiders to leave everything out on the field.
While the Raiders would come out on the losing end of an 18-12 kicking battle against the San Francisco 49ers, they were able to get some questions answered about themselves.
First off, Klint Kubiak poured cold water on the idea of naming a starting quarterback for Week One. However, the performances from the game against San Francisco would suggest what the decision will be.
Kirk Cousins put together a performance that Fernando Mendoza described as "ruthlessly efficient," going 8-for-11 with 51 passing yards. Meanwhile, Mendoza himself ended up struggling with a 7-for-14 line for 57 yards. The first overall pick was also charged with an interception that deflected off the hands of Jalen Nailor to 49ers linebacker Tatum Bethune and two sacks.
#everything #final #preseason
6 days ago
The Las Vegas Raiders decided months ago that they preferred Kirk Cousins starting the season at quarterback while Fernando Mendoza sat and learned.
Based on preseason results, it seems like that might be a reasonable call.
Cousins played in two of the Raiders' preseason games and generally looked sharp and confident in new coach Klint Kubiak's offense. He played two possessions on on Thursday night against the San Francisco 49ers and the Raiders got a field goal on each of them. Mendoza, the first pick of this year's NFL Draft, had some good preseason moments too but he threw an interception for the second straight game and generally struggled.
Mendoza's second pass of the game was an interception. Mendoza tried to squeeze a pass over the 49ers' linebackers dropping into coverage and it was high to Jalen Nailor. The pass went off Nailor's hands and was picked off. That was Mendoza's second interception of the preseason. The first was a pick 6 in last week's game against the Texans.
Mendoza was sacked twice and had just 38 passing yards in the first half. He had four drives before halftime: two ended with a punt, one with an interception and then the Raiders got a field goal before halftime.
#mendoza #first #pass
Based on preseason results, it seems like that might be a reasonable call.
Cousins played in two of the Raiders' preseason games and generally looked sharp and confident in new coach Klint Kubiak's offense. He played two possessions on on Thursday night against the San Francisco 49ers and the Raiders got a field goal on each of them. Mendoza, the first pick of this year's NFL Draft, had some good preseason moments too but he threw an interception for the second straight game and generally struggled.
Mendoza's second pass of the game was an interception. Mendoza tried to squeeze a pass over the 49ers' linebackers dropping into coverage and it was high to Jalen Nailor. The pass went off Nailor's hands and was picked off. That was Mendoza's second interception of the preseason. The first was a pick 6 in last week's game against the Texans.
Mendoza was sacked twice and had just 38 passing yards in the first half. He had four drives before halftime: two ended with a punt, one with an interception and then the Raiders got a field goal before halftime.
#mendoza #first #pass
6 days ago
Kirk Cousins and the Raiders' first-team offense were surprise starters in the team's final preseason game on Thursday night.
Cousins played two series against the 49ers' backups and led the Raiders to Matt Gay field goals of 37 and 53 yards on drives of 12 plays and 46 yards and 10 plays and 45 yards.
The quarterback went 8-of-11 for 51 yards. Tre Tucker caught three passes for 25 yards.
With Ashton Jeanty nursing an ankle injury, Mike Washington was the starting running back. He took advantage of his opportunity with eight carries for 49 yards.
Cousins left with 56 seconds remaining in the first quarter, but the team's other starters stayed on the field with Fernando Mendoza.
#cousins
Cousins played two series against the 49ers' backups and led the Raiders to Matt Gay field goals of 37 and 53 yards on drives of 12 plays and 46 yards and 10 plays and 45 yards.
The quarterback went 8-of-11 for 51 yards. Tre Tucker caught three passes for 25 yards.
With Ashton Jeanty nursing an ankle injury, Mike Washington was the starting running back. He took advantage of his opportunity with eight carries for 49 yards.
Cousins left with 56 seconds remaining in the first quarter, but the team's other starters stayed on the field with Fernando Mendoza.
#cousins
7 days ago
The preseason finale for the Las Vegas Raiders and San Francisco 49ers is here, and both teams have made headlines for drastically different things.
The Raiders secured the No. 1 overall pick and drafted quarterback Fernando Mendoza. In limited action, the rookie has at times looked the part, and also has shown there's still a ways to go. That much is evident and has led the Raiders to decide they'll give the QB1 job to Kirk Cousins until Mendoza is ready to go.
When Mendoza is ready to go, however, is anyone's guess. The Raiders are determined to slow-play it with their passer of the future, leading to questions of when the passer will make his Sunday debut this season.
The 49ers have eyes on a Lombardi Trophy once again, but they've had to navigate some off-the-field distractions throughout training camp, an inauspicious start to their season. First, it was Kyle Shanahan's car accident and the questions that persisted. In the month that followed, principal owner Jed York was arrested.
In between, the 49ers lost wide receiver Ricky Pearsall to a knee injury, Mike Evans dealt with ****** ps and bruises and substation conspiracy theories resurfaced.
#ready #passer #season #vegas
The Raiders secured the No. 1 overall pick and drafted quarterback Fernando Mendoza. In limited action, the rookie has at times looked the part, and also has shown there's still a ways to go. That much is evident and has led the Raiders to decide they'll give the QB1 job to Kirk Cousins until Mendoza is ready to go.
When Mendoza is ready to go, however, is anyone's guess. The Raiders are determined to slow-play it with their passer of the future, leading to questions of when the passer will make his Sunday debut this season.
The 49ers have eyes on a Lombardi Trophy once again, but they've had to navigate some off-the-field distractions throughout training camp, an inauspicious start to their season. First, it was Kyle Shanahan's car accident and the questions that persisted. In the month that followed, principal owner Jed York was arrested.
In between, the 49ers lost wide receiver Ricky Pearsall to a knee injury, Mike Evans dealt with ****** ps and bruises and substation conspiracy theories resurfaced.
#ready #passer #season #vegas
7 days ago
Before joining the Philadelphia 76ers, Jaylen Brown tried to become a leader. Brown was the No. 1 option for the Boston Celtics during the 2025-26 NBA season, as his former co-star Jayson Tatum recovered from an Achilles tear. It was the first time that the star forward became the main offensive option, and he proved that he can lead a playoff team.
Brown led the Celtics to the No. 2 spot in the Eastern Conference with a 56-26 record. Unfortunately for Boston, they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the 76ers after seven games.
His strong outing last season was one of the main reasons why Philly pursued the blockbuster trade this summer. Bob Myers, the president of sports for Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the parent company that owns the 76ers, believes that Brown can be the team's leader moving forward.
May 2, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) drives past Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) during the first quarter of game seven of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images
Myers appeared on Wednesday's episode of "Cousins with Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady." He talked about pushing Jaylen Brown to **** ume a leadership position for Philadelphia.
#celtics #playoffs #sports #leader
Brown led the Celtics to the No. 2 spot in the Eastern Conference with a 56-26 record. Unfortunately for Boston, they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the 76ers after seven games.
His strong outing last season was one of the main reasons why Philly pursued the blockbuster trade this summer. Bob Myers, the president of sports for Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the parent company that owns the 76ers, believes that Brown can be the team's leader moving forward.
May 2, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) drives past Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) during the first quarter of game seven of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images
Myers appeared on Wednesday's episode of "Cousins with Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady." He talked about pushing Jaylen Brown to **** ume a leadership position for Philadelphia.
#celtics #playoffs #sports #leader
7 days ago
It's hard for me to believe that the Las Vegas Raiders' 2026 training camp is almost over because it feels like they were just getting started not too long ago. But here we are, with the Raiders preparing for their third and final preseason game of the campaign against the San Francisco 49ers and the league's cutdown day looming on Sunday, Aug. 30. That also means it's time for my final 53-man roster prediction.
The 'previously' sections below refer to the prediction ahead of the Houston Texans game.
Previously:
Starter: Kirk Cousins
Backups: Fernando Mendoza (R)
#previously #francisco
The 'previously' sections below refer to the prediction ahead of the Houston Texans game.
Previously:
Starter: Kirk Cousins
Backups: Fernando Mendoza (R)
#previously #francisco
8 days ago
HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — The Raiders' offensive line is far from proven, no wide receiver has emerged as a true No. 1 and a rookie could be the starting running back entering the season.
Probably not the ideal situation to start a first-year quarterback, but players drafted first overall — as Fernando Mendoza was — usually join a team with a lot more questions than answers.
And there are plenty with Las Vegas.
Could that be a factor for when Raiders coaches decide to start Mendoza? He likely will be the backup to Kirk Cousins when the season opens Sept. 13 against Miami.
"They've all got to get ready," coach Klint Kubiak said. "Whoever is playing quarterback for us, it's a team thing. It's not the QB playing well and everyone else is not or the other way around."
#team
Probably not the ideal situation to start a first-year quarterback, but players drafted first overall — as Fernando Mendoza was — usually join a team with a lot more questions than answers.
And there are plenty with Las Vegas.
Could that be a factor for when Raiders coaches decide to start Mendoza? He likely will be the backup to Kirk Cousins when the season opens Sept. 13 against Miami.
"They've all got to get ready," coach Klint Kubiak said. "Whoever is playing quarterback for us, it's a team thing. It's not the QB playing well and everyone else is not or the other way around."
#team
9 days ago
After Russell Westbrook announced his NBA retirement, the entire sports world remembered one of the most epic careers in recent history. Even though he walked away ringless, the NBA superstar was one of the era-defining figures in the 2010s.
When you think of that decade, you think of Westbrook. Alongside Kevin Durant, he co-starred on a constant **** le contender. The Oklahoma City Thunder were frequently one of the main characters. The all-time triple-double leader was a one-time MVP winner and a perennial All-NBA member. He completely lit up the box score.
NBA legends — past and present — have spent the last two weeks commemorating Westbrook's mythical run. He's a future Hall-of-Famer and part of a pantheon of basketball gods. Someone else he shares company with in that regard? Tracy McGrady.
McGrady already sits in the Hall of Fame. He's one of the more dynamic scorers of the 2000s. The seven-time All-Star might also be ringless, but the basketball universe fondly remembers his impact on the game. He recently went on his 'Cousins' podcast with Vince Carter to make a bold statement.
"20-20-20, bro? That's only been done twice. Like, I know Kobe had 81. Bam had 83. I seen Luka hit 70. I seen Donovan Mitchell hit 70. I seen Book hit 70," McGrady said. "But the 20-20-20 to me is probably the greatest individual performance that I've seen out of a player from Westbrook."
#time #think
When you think of that decade, you think of Westbrook. Alongside Kevin Durant, he co-starred on a constant **** le contender. The Oklahoma City Thunder were frequently one of the main characters. The all-time triple-double leader was a one-time MVP winner and a perennial All-NBA member. He completely lit up the box score.
NBA legends — past and present — have spent the last two weeks commemorating Westbrook's mythical run. He's a future Hall-of-Famer and part of a pantheon of basketball gods. Someone else he shares company with in that regard? Tracy McGrady.
McGrady already sits in the Hall of Fame. He's one of the more dynamic scorers of the 2000s. The seven-time All-Star might also be ringless, but the basketball universe fondly remembers his impact on the game. He recently went on his 'Cousins' podcast with Vince Carter to make a bold statement.
"20-20-20, bro? That's only been done twice. Like, I know Kobe had 81. Bam had 83. I seen Luka hit 70. I seen Donovan Mitchell hit 70. I seen Book hit 70," McGrady said. "But the 20-20-20 to me is probably the greatest individual performance that I've seen out of a player from Westbrook."
#time #think
11 days ago
Raiders' focus on Fernando Mendoza and Kirk Cousins is hiding a bigger problem originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Las Vegas Raiders are all the talk in the NFL right now. That's what happens when you have two superstar quarterbacks on your roster.
The Raiders, of course, have veteran Kirk Cousins and rookie Fernando Mendoza on their roster. They selected Mendoza with their No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft. Expectations are high. The sky is the limit. All eyes are on these two.
But, it's easy to ignore other parts of the puzzle when the quarterbacks are getting all the media hype. The Raiders may have another problem that they need to address before the season starts.
In a piece out on Saturday, ESPN's Ryan McFadden lays out a problem the Raiders have that perhaps they haven't addressed enough. It's their secondary.
#fernando #quarterbacks #preferred
The Las Vegas Raiders are all the talk in the NFL right now. That's what happens when you have two superstar quarterbacks on your roster.
The Raiders, of course, have veteran Kirk Cousins and rookie Fernando Mendoza on their roster. They selected Mendoza with their No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft. Expectations are high. The sky is the limit. All eyes are on these two.
But, it's easy to ignore other parts of the puzzle when the quarterbacks are getting all the media hype. The Raiders may have another problem that they need to address before the season starts.
In a piece out on Saturday, ESPN's Ryan McFadden lays out a problem the Raiders have that perhaps they haven't addressed enough. It's their secondary.
#fernando #quarterbacks #preferred
13 days ago
Las Vegas Raiders top pick Fernando Mendoza may not exactly have inspired confidence in his coaches on Thursday in the team's 22-20 win in the preseason over the Houston Texans.
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft went 8-of-15 with one interception returned for a touchdown, while veteran Kirk Cousins didn't play at all, perhaps a sign that the franchise will start him in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins.
But head coach Klint Kubiak wasn't about to make any declarations just yet after the contest. As of right now, he's not naming the starting quarterback.
"We've got another week of playing. I don't want anyone to be comfortable in their job," he said, via Pro Football Talk. "It should always be that way for all positions. So, let's keep going forward."
Remember that Cousins has been working with the first-team offense and that Kubiak has said "it's his job to lose." It seems pretty obvious at this point that Cousins is the front-runner barring a surprise. We'll see.
#vegas #fernando #houston
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft went 8-of-15 with one interception returned for a touchdown, while veteran Kirk Cousins didn't play at all, perhaps a sign that the franchise will start him in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins.
But head coach Klint Kubiak wasn't about to make any declarations just yet after the contest. As of right now, he's not naming the starting quarterback.
"We've got another week of playing. I don't want anyone to be comfortable in their job," he said, via Pro Football Talk. "It should always be that way for all positions. So, let's keep going forward."
Remember that Cousins has been working with the first-team offense and that Kubiak has said "it's his job to lose." It seems pretty obvious at this point that Cousins is the front-runner barring a surprise. We'll see.
#vegas #fernando #houston
13 days ago
No. 2 for No. 1.
Fernando Mendoza pro debut came and went without any issues in Week 1 of the NFL preseason. On Aug. 20, the Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback was afforded the opportunity for an encore performance in preseason Week 2.
The No. 1 overall pick's second game for the silver-and-black is now in the history books, meaning the reviews are starting to trickle in. How did he play? Do the Raiders have a quarterback competition brewing that they aren't aware of?
In a sentence: Welcome to the NFL, rook.
MORE: Fernando Mendoza's Raiders debut proved Kirk Cousins' value – and that's OK
#preseason #mendoza #kirk
Fernando Mendoza pro debut came and went without any issues in Week 1 of the NFL preseason. On Aug. 20, the Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback was afforded the opportunity for an encore performance in preseason Week 2.
The No. 1 overall pick's second game for the silver-and-black is now in the history books, meaning the reviews are starting to trickle in. How did he play? Do the Raiders have a quarterback competition brewing that they aren't aware of?
In a sentence: Welcome to the NFL, rook.
MORE: Fernando Mendoza's Raiders debut proved Kirk Cousins' value – and that's OK
#preseason #mendoza #kirk
13 days ago
The Los Angeles Dodgers are moving one of their top prospects one step closer to the big leagues.
Pitcher Cam Leiter was promoted from Class-A Ontario to advanced Class-A Great Lakers on Thursday, Aug. 20. Leiter is the nephew of former major league pitchers Al and Mark Leiter. Two of his cousins, Mark Leiter Jr. and Jack Leiter, have already reached the major leagues.
Leiter was the Dodgers' second-round draft pick (65th overall) last year out of Florida State. For someone with such a long family pedigree in professional baseball, the Dodgers had relatively little idea what to expect from Leiter in 2026.
MORE: Dodgers make decision on Edwin Diaz, will promote Triple-A starter
The right-hander didn't pitch at all in 2025, his junior year of college, after undergoing surgery to clean up his shoulder in October 2024.
#leiter
Pitcher Cam Leiter was promoted from Class-A Ontario to advanced Class-A Great Lakers on Thursday, Aug. 20. Leiter is the nephew of former major league pitchers Al and Mark Leiter. Two of his cousins, Mark Leiter Jr. and Jack Leiter, have already reached the major leagues.
Leiter was the Dodgers' second-round draft pick (65th overall) last year out of Florida State. For someone with such a long family pedigree in professional baseball, the Dodgers had relatively little idea what to expect from Leiter in 2026.
MORE: Dodgers make decision on Edwin Diaz, will promote Triple-A starter
The right-hander didn't pitch at all in 2025, his junior year of college, after undergoing surgery to clean up his shoulder in October 2024.
#leiter
14 days ago
What channel is Texans vs. Raiders on today? Time, TV schedule, live stream to watch NFL Week 2 preseason game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
After positive reviews in his NFL preseason debut, top overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza will be in the spotlight once again as the Raiders travel to Houston to face the Texans on Thursday.
Though Kirk Cousins will once again get the start in this game and presumably Week 1 of the regular season, Mendoza is the player NFL watchers want to see as the Heisman Trophy winner continues his adjustment to the pros. He completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown last week against the Cardinals and should get another extended look in Week 2.
On the other side, Houston figures to roll out C.J. Stroud for his first action of the preseason after riding with Davis Mills and Graham Mertz last week. Mertz suffered a season-ending knee injury in the loss to the Chargers, leading the team to sign veteran Brett Rypien this week for additional depth.
Both teams will do their best to avoid another injury like that one tonight while still getting in key reps. Here's all you need to know to tune in and watch the preseason Week 2 game.
#texans
After positive reviews in his NFL preseason debut, top overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza will be in the spotlight once again as the Raiders travel to Houston to face the Texans on Thursday.
Though Kirk Cousins will once again get the start in this game and presumably Week 1 of the regular season, Mendoza is the player NFL watchers want to see as the Heisman Trophy winner continues his adjustment to the pros. He completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown last week against the Cardinals and should get another extended look in Week 2.
On the other side, Houston figures to roll out C.J. Stroud for his first action of the preseason after riding with Davis Mills and Graham Mertz last week. Mertz suffered a season-ending knee injury in the loss to the Chargers, leading the team to sign veteran Brett Rypien this week for additional depth.
Both teams will do their best to avoid another injury like that one tonight while still getting in key reps. Here's all you need to know to tune in and watch the preseason Week 2 game.
#texans
14 days ago
As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle prepare to move back to the UK with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, after spending six years living in the US, the question of where the young royals will attend school has naturally arisen.
Both Archie and Lilibet are already enrolled in school in Britain, with their term commencing in September. The Sussexes plan to be settled into their new home in the UK by the end of August.
Harry and Meghan have enrolled their children in a UK school (@ Instagram)
While the couple have kept the name of Archie and Lilibet's school private due to security concerns, the location of the institution is near their new non-royal residence in Britain. Seven-year-old Archie is enrolled in Year Three, while his five-year-old sister is enrolled in Year One.
It is widely expected that the duo will attend a co-educational day school rather than a boarding school, similar to Lambrook School, where their cousins Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis are in attendance.
#enrolled #lilibet #britain
Both Archie and Lilibet are already enrolled in school in Britain, with their term commencing in September. The Sussexes plan to be settled into their new home in the UK by the end of August.
Harry and Meghan have enrolled their children in a UK school (@ Instagram)
While the couple have kept the name of Archie and Lilibet's school private due to security concerns, the location of the institution is near their new non-royal residence in Britain. Seven-year-old Archie is enrolled in Year Three, while his five-year-old sister is enrolled in Year One.
It is widely expected that the duo will attend a co-educational day school rather than a boarding school, similar to Lambrook School, where their cousins Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis are in attendance.
#enrolled #lilibet #britain
15 days ago
Prior to training camp, there was a large faction of Las Vegas Raiders fans who were not happy about the reports that the team was expected to make nww veteran addition Kirk Cousins the starting quarterback to start the season (and likely remain the starter for much, if not, all of he 2026 season) over No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza.
Now, that we are well into training camp and the preseason, it seems obvious that Cousins will, indeed, be the starter in Week 1 when the Raiders host the Miami Dolphins on September 13. Last week, Raiders coach Klint Kubiak said the starting gig is Cousins' to lose and he has looked great in training camp and the first preseason game.
Now, that that reality is sinking in, we wanted to circle back. How are you feeling about the likelihood of Cousins playing instead of Mendoza.
Cousins has had a strong training camp and, of course, he is experienced. Are you in favor of this plan or do you want the top prized rookie get his shot as soon as possible?
Sign up for a user account and get:
#starter #preseason
Now, that we are well into training camp and the preseason, it seems obvious that Cousins will, indeed, be the starter in Week 1 when the Raiders host the Miami Dolphins on September 13. Last week, Raiders coach Klint Kubiak said the starting gig is Cousins' to lose and he has looked great in training camp and the first preseason game.
Now, that that reality is sinking in, we wanted to circle back. How are you feeling about the likelihood of Cousins playing instead of Mendoza.
Cousins has had a strong training camp and, of course, he is experienced. Are you in favor of this plan or do you want the top prized rookie get his shot as soon as possible?
Sign up for a user account and get:
#starter #preseason
15 days ago
The Las Vegas Raiders held a joint practice with the host Houston Texans on Tuesday and, as head coach Klint Kubiak suggested might happen last week, rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza did, indeed, get some work with the first-team offense.
Mendoza got extensive work with the first- team offense for the first time in training camp and it came against the Texans' stout defense. He had some nice moments, but also struggled along with the rest of the Raiders' offense. He and expected starter Kirk Cousins threw Pick 6s.
Kubiak wouldn't say if the first team would play Thursday night against the Texans, but he did say Mendoza will get a lot of reps. He played from late in the first quarter until early in the fourth quarter against Arizona last week.
In other notes from the joint practice:
While it seemed like the Texans' defense won the day, the Raiders' had some highlights. Tight end Brock Bowers had some nice plays. Running back Ashton Jeanty made some plays in their receiving game and rookie running back Mike Washington had some big runs against the Texans' second-team defense.
#kubiak
Mendoza got extensive work with the first- team offense for the first time in training camp and it came against the Texans' stout defense. He had some nice moments, but also struggled along with the rest of the Raiders' offense. He and expected starter Kirk Cousins threw Pick 6s.
Kubiak wouldn't say if the first team would play Thursday night against the Texans, but he did say Mendoza will get a lot of reps. He played from late in the first quarter until early in the fourth quarter against Arizona last week.
In other notes from the joint practice:
While it seemed like the Texans' defense won the day, the Raiders' had some highlights. Tight end Brock Bowers had some nice plays. Running back Ashton Jeanty made some plays in their receiving game and rookie running back Mike Washington had some big runs against the Texans' second-team defense.
#kubiak
16 days ago
Can Fernando Mendoza become a savior for a big NFL franchise like the Las Vegas Raiders? Rookie quarterback Mendoza is a towering 6 feet 5 inches tall, throwing the ball all over the field with incredible speed and brilliance.
Fans and experts are eager to know when his time will come to step onto the field as the Raiders' starting quarterback.
The plans regarding the Raiders' quarterback are now starting to become clear at the training camp. The current situation is:
Kirk Cousins has been designated as the No. 1 QB on the roster.
Fernando Mendoza's name is on the list as the No. 2 QB.
#vegas
Fans and experts are eager to know when his time will come to step onto the field as the Raiders' starting quarterback.
The plans regarding the Raiders' quarterback are now starting to become clear at the training camp. The current situation is:
Kirk Cousins has been designated as the No. 1 QB on the roster.
Fernando Mendoza's name is on the list as the No. 2 QB.
#vegas
16 days ago
NFL preseason games do not count toward the regular season, nor are they the end-all, be-all for judging how well a player might perform when the season begins. Still, when you're a rookie in the NFL, the preseason is all there is to go off of until the regular season starts.
For these three rookies, Week 2 of the preseason is a big time for them to step up and show what they can do at the professional level. Let's dive in.
MORE: NFL top 5 richest teams in 2026
Aug 13, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) throws the ball against the Arizona Cardinals in the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The No. 1 overall pick actually had a solid debut: 10-of-16 passing for 97 yards and a touchdown. But Kirk Cousins went 5-for-6 and immediately led Las Vegas to a touchdown on his only series. More importantly, Mendoza completed just 2 of 6 passes when pressured.
#mendoza #touchdown
For these three rookies, Week 2 of the preseason is a big time for them to step up and show what they can do at the professional level. Let's dive in.
MORE: NFL top 5 richest teams in 2026
Aug 13, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) throws the ball against the Arizona Cardinals in the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The No. 1 overall pick actually had a solid debut: 10-of-16 passing for 97 yards and a touchdown. But Kirk Cousins went 5-for-6 and immediately led Las Vegas to a touchdown on his only series. More importantly, Mendoza completed just 2 of 6 passes when pressured.
#mendoza #touchdown
17 days ago
NFL QB battle roundup: Where Browns, Falcons, Vikings stand after first week of preseason action originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Four NFL teams opened training camp with their starting quarterback role unsettled. After a week of preseason action, fans are starting to get some clarity on who has the advantage in those battles.
Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders both saw time under center in the Browns' preseason loss to the Bears, while Fernando Mendoza made his first impression as he tries to unseat veteran Kirk Cousins as the Raiders' top quarterback.
Elsewhere, Tua Tagovailoa got the chance to take a lead over Michael Penix Jr. in Atlanta as Penix continues to work his way back from ACL surgery.
Here's a look at the status of each quarterback battle after Week 1 of preseason action.
#week #Browns #first
Four NFL teams opened training camp with their starting quarterback role unsettled. After a week of preseason action, fans are starting to get some clarity on who has the advantage in those battles.
Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders both saw time under center in the Browns' preseason loss to the Bears, while Fernando Mendoza made his first impression as he tries to unseat veteran Kirk Cousins as the Raiders' top quarterback.
Elsewhere, Tua Tagovailoa got the chance to take a lead over Michael Penix Jr. in Atlanta as Penix continues to work his way back from ACL surgery.
Here's a look at the status of each quarterback battle after Week 1 of preseason action.
#week #Browns #first
17 days ago
Maxx Crosby's latest joke about Kirk Cousins gets mixed reviews originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Maxx Crosby and Kirk Cousins of the Las Vegas Raiders got into a heated argument during training camp that resulted in both players being forced to miss a day of practice.
Crosby knows he's not supposed to rough up, or even touch, the quarterbacks in training camp. But, he did it anyway, and that didn't go over well with Cousins. The two had an incident, and ever since it happened, there's been buzz that these two aren't getting along.
Now, Crosby is capitalizing on this feud with a funny post on social media, but not everyone is digging it. When it comes to comedy, don't quit your day job, Crosby.
On Saturday, Crosby took to social media to make a joke about their tiff. He posted a pretend UFC 330 poster on X with himself and Cousins duking it out as the main event.
#joke #Social #Media
Maxx Crosby and Kirk Cousins of the Las Vegas Raiders got into a heated argument during training camp that resulted in both players being forced to miss a day of practice.
Crosby knows he's not supposed to rough up, or even touch, the quarterbacks in training camp. But, he did it anyway, and that didn't go over well with Cousins. The two had an incident, and ever since it happened, there's been buzz that these two aren't getting along.
Now, Crosby is capitalizing on this feud with a funny post on social media, but not everyone is digging it. When it comes to comedy, don't quit your day job, Crosby.
On Saturday, Crosby took to social media to make a joke about their tiff. He posted a pretend UFC 330 poster on X with himself and Cousins duking it out as the main event.
#joke #Social #Media