The Las Vegas Raiders concluded their preseason on August 27, 2026, with an 18-12 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. The contest served as a final evaluation for the roster before the team faces the Miami Dolphins in their season opener on September 13.
Kirk Cousins' 8-of-11 efficiency versus Fernando Mendoza's two interceptions
The final preseason game highlighted a stark divide in the Las Vegas Raiders' quarterback room. Veteran Kirk Cousins provided a steady, mistake-free performance, completing 8 of 11 passes for 51 yards. According to the report, Cousins moved the offense into scoring position twice, though both drives ended in missed field goals rather than touchdowns.
In contrast, rookie Fernando Mendoza struggled to adapt to the speed of the professional game. mendoza threw two interceptions,including one seized by San Francisco 49ers linebacker Tatum Bethune during a chaotic play intended for Jalen Nailor.. the rookie's inability to find a rhythm under pressure suggests that while he may be the future of the franchise, he is currently far from a polished product.
Mike Washington Jr.'s 7.3 yards-per-carry preseason surge
While the passing game fluctuated, the Las Vegas Raiders found a reliable weapon in fourth-round pick Mike Washington Jr. The former Arkansas standout rushed eight times for 49 yards in the final game, averaging 6.1 yards per carry. this performance pushed Washington Jr.'s total preseason production to 168 yards, resulting in an impressive overall average of 7.3 yards per carry.
The rise of Mike Washington Jr. provides critical insurance for the Las Vegas Raiders' backfield. As the report noted, veteran running back Ashtona Jeanty has been hampered by a sprained ankle, leaving a void in the starting rotation. Washington Jr.'s combination of power and vision makes him a viable alternative to manage the workload if Jeanty is unable to return to full strength by the regular season.
Who starts against the Miami Dolphins on September 13?
The most pressing question for the Las Vegas Raiders is whether the coaching staff will prioritize the safety of Kirk Cousins or the developmental ceiling of Fernando Mendoza for the season opener. While Cousins is the disciplined choice, Mendoza represents the long-term vision for the team. however, the rookie's viability is currently tied to the performance of the offensive line, which allowed Mendoza to be sacked twice in the second half against the San Francisco 49ers.
It remains unclear if the Las Vegas Raiders have a plan to stabilize the protection for Mendoza or if they will simply lean on the veteran poise of Cousins to avoid early-season collapses. The team's decision will likely depend on the final days of training camp and whether the offensive line can prove it can protect a rookie quarterback from elite pass rushers .
A 1-2 preseason record and the road to the regular season
The Las Vegas Raiders finish their exhibition slate with a 1-2 record,a result that reflects a team still searching for a cohesive identity. While the defense showed flashes of competence and the running game found a new spark in Mike Washington Jr., the lack of a definitive answer at quarterback remains a liability.
The upcoming window before the September 13 opener is now the only time left for the Las Vegas Raiders to fine-tune their offensive potency.. The coaching staff must now balance the need to protect their young assets while ensuring the team is competitive enough to survive the rigors of the 2026 NFL season.
Comments 0