NFL

Kirk Cousins Embraces Veteran Role as Raiders Starter for 15th NFL Season

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 12, 2026, 17:57 IST

Entering his 15th NFL season, 38-year-old quarterback Kirk Cousins is set to lead the Las Vegas Raiders, balancing his role as a mentor to rookie Fernando Mendoza with his familiarity in Klint Kubiak's offensive scheme.

Kirk Cousins Embraces Veteran Role as Raiders Starter for 15th NFL Season

As Kirk Cousins prepares to take the field for his 15th NFL season this Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, he finds himself in a unique position. At 38, the veteran quarterback is the oldest player on the Las Vegas Raiders roster, serving as a seasoned leader for a team currently undergoing a significant rebuild. For Cousins, reaching this milestone is a testament to the resilience he has cultivated since entering the league as a backup in 2012.

The transition to Las Vegas marks his third team in four seasons, placing him in a locker room where the average age is 26. While his teammates often joke about his status as the elder statesman of the group, Cousins has embraced the dynamic. He remains focused on his primary objective: helping to elevate the performance of those around him while providing stability for a franchise looking to improve upon its 3-14 record from the 2025 season.

A Familiar Scheme for a New Challenge

Cousins’ arrival in Las Vegas is bolstered by his deep familiarity with head coach Klint Kubiak’s offensive philosophy. Having previously worked with Kubiak and his father, Gary, during his time with the Minnesota Vikings, the veteran signal-caller is uniquely qualified to help implement the current staff's vision. This tactical alignment was a key factor in the organization’s decision to name him the starter for the season opener.

Beyond his own performance, Cousins is tasked with guiding the team’s young talent, most notably rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza. While Cousins secured the starting role, he has been vocal about the importance of mentoring the first-round pick. He views his role as a bridge, demonstrating the professional habits and discipline required for long-term success in the NFL. According to Cousins, Mendoza has already shown a strong aptitude for learning the system and understanding complex defensive schemes.

Reflecting on a Career Journey

The path to his 15th season has been anything but linear. Following a challenging stint with the Atlanta Falcons that ended in his release this past March, Cousins admitted there was a period of uncertainty regarding his future in the sport. However, the opportunity to join the Raiders provided a fresh start. He credits the current leadership—including general manager John Spytek and minority owner Tom Brady—for fostering a culture of commitment that has resonated with the locker room.

Off the field, the age gap between Cousins and his teammates has provided moments of levity. Whether he is discussing 1990s pop culture or navigating the modern interests of his younger colleagues, Cousins has leaned into his reputation as an "old soul." Yet, beneath the lighthearted interactions, there is a genuine appreciation for the work ethic displayed by the team's younger core, including players like Ashton Jeanty and Caleb Rogers. As he prepares for Sunday’s kickoff, Cousins remains focused on the task at hand, aiming to translate his experience into immediate results for the Raiders.