Raiders May Pivot to Fernando Mendoza as Kirk Cousins Faces Increasing Pressure

Kirk Cousins faced a 53% pressure rate and two sacks against the Patriots as analysts suggest a move to rookie Fernando Mendoza.

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins faced significant pressure in a recent matchup against the New England Patriots, where defensive coordinator Zak Kuhr blitzed him on 41.2% of his first-half dropbacks. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, the Patriots generated a 53% pressure rate and recorded two sacks against the 38-year-old veteran. Cousins finished the first two quarters 10-for-15 for 123 yards and one touchdown, but his lack of mobility has become a focal point for opposing defenses.

Cousins currently leads the league with the lowest average speed at release at 2.85 mph. He has recorded only three scrambles where he crossed the line of scrimmage this season, and just 7.6% of his throws have occurred while on the move. While he ranks 10th in the NFL in EPA per pressured dropback, his inability to extend plays has led to uncatchable throws, such as a third-and-14 attempt against Kindle Vildor.

ESPN analyst Ben Solak suggests the Raiders may soon transition to rookie Fernando Mendoza to utilize his mobility. The Raiders, currently 3-2, face the Buffalo Bills in Week 6, followed by the Los Angeles Rams and New York Jets. The Rams and Jets both maintain above-average blitz rates, which could further exploit Cousins' pocket-bound playing style.

In other Week 6 developments, the Seattle Seahawks continue to struggle with a rushing attack that ranks 31st in EPA per rush at minus-0.22. The team is awaiting the return of Zach Charbonnet from a knee injury to address a league-worst 43.8% conversion rate on short-yardage carries. Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders fell to 1-3-1 after failing to attempt a potential game-winning field goal against the Giants as time expired in overtime.