Kirk Cousins Sends Fernando Mendoza Encouraging Message in IG Photo After Raiders-Vikings Trade

Kirk Cousins reacted to getting traded from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Minnesota Vikings ahead of Tuesday's deadline.

Cousins thanked Raiders fans for their support while telling former teammate Fernando Mendoza to "go get em" in a post on his Instagram story.

Las Vegas sent Cousins to Minnesota in exchange for a 2027 third-round pick.

Mendoza sat behind the veteran on the Raiders' depth chart to begin this season, although the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft will now become the team's starting quarterback.

Mendoza previously discussed the assistance he received from Cousins while beginning his rookie season.

"He's playing at an MVP-caliber level, and him being so receptive to me, and answering all my questions, and looking out for me is super special," Mendoza said Sunday, per Michael Silver of The Athletic. "He's stuck his neck out for me and really helped me along the way."

The Raiders started the 2026 season with a 3-0 record, but went on to lose five of their next six games before sending Cousins to the Vikings.

Expectations are high for Mendoza, as he joined Las Vegas following a 2025 campaign at Indiana in which he earned Heisman Trophy honors and led the Hoosiers to a national championship.

He completed 72.0 percent of his throws for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns compared to a mere six interceptions last year. He also averaged 9.3 yards per attempt, helping Indiana compile a perfect 16-0 record.

Mendoza appeared in three preseason games for Las Vegas, finishing 25-of-45 for 240 yards and one touchdown while getting picked off twice. He was also sacked four times.

Cousins' first opportunity to start for the Vikings will come against the Green Bay Packers in Week 10, while Mendoza and the Raiders are set to host the Seattle Seahawks.