Yes, Kirk Cousins is expected to start for the Raiders in 2026. Per the wiki, he signed a flexible 1-year deal to serve as the bridge starter while rookie Fernando Mendoza (No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 draft) learns the Shanahan-system offense under HC Klint Kubiak (from the Kirk Cousins page). He's ahead of schedule in his Achilles recovery and has been praised by Kubiak for his play during offseason workouts — he finished 2025 strong, posting 7 TDs to 2 INTs over his last four games in Atlanta.
The plan is clear: Cousins starts the season, Mendoza develops behind him. When Mendoza is ready, Cousins would slide to a backup/mentor role.
On Underdog Fantasy Football, Josh & Hayden discussed exactly this — they noted the big question is who starts Week 1, with Tom Brady (Raiders minority owner) potentially having a say in the decision. . But as of now, all signs point to Cousins under center to open the season.