Tom Brady Steered Raiders to Start Kirk Cousins Over No. 1 Pick Fernando Mendoza
Updated
Updated · Yahoo Sports · Sep 2
Tom Brady Steered Raiders to Start Kirk Cousins Over No. 1 Pick Fernando Mendoza
3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Sep 2
Summary
Klint Kubiak's decision to open Week 1 with Kirk Cousins was heavily shaped by Tom Brady, who ESPN reported argued against rushing No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza into the lineup.
Brady has been "very vocal" in the building, and Kubiak said he consults the minority owner multiple times a week on roster building, schematics and team construction.
The Raiders had signaled since the combine that Mendoza would likely sit first, believing the rookie should develop behind a veteran rather than start before he is ready.
Las Vegas also sees Cousins as better equipped to handle immediate issues around an unsettled offensive line and an unproven wide receiver group while Mendoza refines his game.