​Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins will need to produce under center in 2026. Fernando Mendoza’s presence in Las Vegas takes some pressure off of Cousins for next season, though in the event that the latter is named the starting QB, he will still carry major expectations on the year.According to CBS Sports’ Zachary Pereles, Cousins is one of four quarterbacks who face defining seasons in 2026 with their respective new teams.Before the injury, Cousins was somewhat like Sam Darnold, whom Klint Kubiak really did well with last year. Can he still be somewhat similar to that, even if a step down? … They’ll (the Raiders) hope Tyler Linderbaum helps elevate the unit as a whole, but Cousins behind an iffy line is a scary proposition. Expect a heavy dose of Bowers. Cousins found a good connection with Pitts last year; he’ll feed his standout tight end.Cousins is looking to bounce back from injuries that slowed him down for the last two years. The Raiders have an improved roster for next season, particularly on offense, with an upgraded offensive line and more depth in the backfield. The 37-year-old Cousins is expected to orchestrate that unit and be a mentor to Mendoza regardless of who gets the start in Week 1.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWith the different ways that Cousins will be looked at to make an impact on the team in 2026 and set the tone for the franchise, he approaches a year that carries major implications for himself and the Raiders.This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Does Raiders QB Kirk Cousins face defining season in 2026?