The reality of the 2026 Las Vegas Raiders is that they may not sustain the level of performance seen in the first two weeks of the season. However, they are unlikely to perform as poorly as they might in the upcoming six weeks.
If they can sustain their winning ways under rookie head coach Klint Kubiak, then rookie quarterback Fernado Mendoza may not see much action in the first half of the season.
Despite the unknowns ahead, the Raiders are showing signs of a culture shift and a newfound ability to win games they would have lost before.
It’s difficult to determine how much of their success is attributed to the involvement of Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady in their ownership group, but it certainly has had a positive impact.
This team is in a rebuilding phase, and upcoming matches against tougher teams like the Saints, Chiefs, Patriots, Bills, and Rams will be a true test.
One thing that is evident is the significant improvement in the team’s offense compared to last year.
The Maxx Crosby Effect
Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins has been a perfect fit for the team. Edge defender Maxx Crosby is excelling, and tight end Brock Bowers is expected to join the lineup in Week 3.
The team has a new energy this season, as noted by NFL analyst and former MVP quarterback Rich Gannon, and the 2-0 start under Kubiak is encouraging.
“The way they beat the Chargers (in Week 2) wasn’t some fluke,” a longtime NFL executive shared. “They outplayed them and they outcoached them.”
This positive momentum bodes well for the Silver and Black.
Record Signing Tyler Linderbaum ‘Makes All The Difference’
Gannon anticipated a shift to a more traditional offense with an emphasis on play action passes and tight-end plays. The addition of center Tyler Linderbaum has significantly improved the offensive line.
Cousins leads the NFL in play-action passing after the first two weeks, and the team has shown improvement in pressure rate allowed, thanks to a renewed emphasis on line play and play action.
With the return of Bowers, the offense is expected to excel further, offering more opportunities for strategic matchups.
Despite concerns about running back Ashton Jeanty’s health, the team is poised to be more efficient on the ground with Kubiak’s scheme and a revamped offensive line.
As Cousins and the team continue to refine their performance, they aim to maintain their success and stay competitive throughout the season.
Cousins Enjoys a New Lease of Life Under Kubiak
Quarterback Kirk Cousins is thriving under Kubiak’s leadership, bringing energy and leadership to the team. As they face tougher opponents, Cousins’ leadership will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead.
“I do think he’s in his element and I think he’s going to play with a lot of energy this year,” his agent Mike McCartney shared.
As the Raiders progress through the season, Cousins’ passion and leadership will be essential in the team’s performance.