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Fernando Mendoza reminds everyone Kirk Cousins is still alive and well
Fernando Mendoza, the Raiders’ 22-year-old rookie quarterback, said Kirk Cousins is “not gone forever” after Cousins was traded to Minnesota. Mendoza is preparing for his first NFL start against Seattle on Sunday and said he is grateful for the guidance and welcome he received from Cousins and his family.
Cousins shared how he studied film and prepared for games, despite Mendoza being the player expected to take his job. The article says Mendoza spent his first nine NFL games around Cousins in Las Vegas; he may miss being able to ask him questions in person, but can still call him after reviewing Sunday’s game.
In short
- Mendoza makes his first NFL start against Seattle on Sunday.
- He credits Cousins with sharing his preparation and experience.
- The quarterbacks can stay in touch after Cousins’ move to Minnesota.
Explained simply
The Las Vegas Raiders and Minnesota Vikings are teams in the National Football League (NFL), the top level of American professional football. Each team has a quarterback, who leads the attack and passes the ball; a rookie is a player in their first professional season.
Fernando Mendoza is a young quarterback beginning his NFL career with the Raiders, while Kirk Cousins is an experienced player who has played for several teams. A team may trade a player by transferring his rights to another club, often in return for players or other benefits.
Quarterbacks face pressure to learn quickly and make decisions that can shape a team’s results. Experienced players can help younger teammates understand preparation and game tactics, even when they are competing for the same role.