Behind-the-scenes rise that convinced Raiders to deal Kirk Cousins

The Raiders traded Kirk Cousins to Minnesota after rookie Fernando Mendoza’s progress in practice convinced them he could take over as starting quarterback. The move gives the No. 1 draft pick an early opportunity while the team remains in the AFC play-off race, and the Raiders say they still intend to compete this season.

Minnesota gave up a 2027 third-round pick for Cousins, who had thrown 20 touchdown passes in nine starts. He completed 64.1 per cent of his passes for 2,340 yards, with eight interceptions and a 97.1 passer rating; the Vikings were 6-2. Coach Klint Kubiak said Mendoza had exceeded expectations and was ready physically and mentally, while general manager John Spytek said the trade was not a decision to give up on the season.