The Raiders are reportedly planning to keep Kirk Cousins through Tuesday’s trade deadline, despite speculation that he could make way for rookie Fernando Mendoza. Las Vegas has received no trade calls about Cousins and wants him to remain the starter until Mendoza is ready. The Raiders’ 4-4 record and playoff hopes may also make them reluctant to deal their quarterback.

By the Numbers
  • Cousins has 19 passing touchdowns, second in the NFL entering Week 9.
  • He has completed 63.6% of his passes with a 101.4 passer rating in eight starts.
  • Las Vegas is 4-4; Minnesota is 6-1 and leads the NFC North.
Yes, But

Minnesota has been linked to Cousins and could use quarterback help while Kyler Murray recovers from a Grade 2 hamstring injury. Still, the Raiders reportedly prefer to keep Cousins, and no team has called about a trade.

What's Next

The Raiders’ stance could shift after Week 9, but for now Cousins is expected to stay in Las Vegas and continue starting while Mendoza develops.

Bottom Line

Cousins is a rumored trade candidate, not an active deal: Las Vegas sees more value in keeping its productive starter during a playoff push than rushing Mendoza into the lineup.