No rookie QBs are set to start in Week 1 for just the second time in the last 19 seasons

In a shift from recent trends, the Las Vegas Raiders have decided to bench their No. 1 overall draft pick, Fernando Mendoza, at the start of the NFL season, opting to play veteran Kirk Cousins instead. This decision is notable as it marks the first time since 2018 that a top draft pick quarterback begins the season on the bench. Historically, most No. 1 picks have started their rookie seasons, reflecting a broader trend of teams quickly transitioning young quarterbacks into starting roles. This year, both Mendoza and Ty Simpson of the Los Angeles Rams will begin as reserves, making it only the second time in 19 years that no rookie quarterbacks start the season opener. The Raiders also continue a streak of having a different head coach and starting quarterback for four consecutive season openers, a record previously matched only by the Houston Texans. QUESTION: How might the decision to bench a top draft pick like Fernando Mendoza impact his development and the team’s future success?