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Raiders Name Kirk Cousins Week 1 Starter Amid QB Shake-Up

Published by YuToday Staff

0 views · 32 minutes ago · 4:40 read · September 2, 2026

The Las Vegas Raiders have named Kirk Cousins their Week 1 starting quarterback, solidifying their offensive plans as the regular season approaches. Meanwhile, Ja'Marr Chase's limited participation due to a knee issue and Tony Romo's legal update have added intrigue to the league's headlines.

Key takeaways

The Las Vegas Raiders have named Kirk Cousins their Week 1 starting quarterback, signaling confidence in his leadership and ability to lead the offense.
Ja'Marr Chase's knee issue has limited his participation in practice, raising concerns about his availability for the Bengals' Week 1 game.
Tony Romo has pleaded no contest to an OWI charge, resolving a legal matter that could have impacted his broadcasting career.
The NFL's injury landscape remains fluid, with several players dealing with issues that could affect their teams' Week 1 plans.

Raiders Tap Kirk Cousins as Week 1 Starter

The Las Vegas Raiders have officially named Kirk Cousins their starting quarterback for Week 1 of the regular season. The move comes after a competitive training camp and preseason, where Cousins outperformed younger options and earned the trust of head coach. Cousins, now in his second season with the Raiders, brings veteran leadership and a strong arm to an offense looking to rebound after a disappointing 2025 campaign. His selection as the Week 1 starter signals the team's confidence in his ability to lead the unit, though questions remain about the depth behind him. The decision also reflects the Raiders' commitment to stability at the quarterback position, a critical factor in any team's success.

Ja'Marr Chase Limited with Knee Issue Ahead of Week 1

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase has been limited in practice this week due to a knee issue, raising concerns about his availability for Week 1. The reigning Super Bowl MVP has been a key part of the Bengals' offense, and his absence would significantly impact their passing game. While the team has not provided a detailed update on the severity of the injury, Chase's limited participation suggests the issue is being monitored closely. The Bengals will likely prioritize his health and ensure he is fully recovered before taking the field. Fans and analysts will be watching closely for any further updates on his status as the regular season opener approaches.

Tony Romo Pleads No Contest in OWI Case

Former NFL quarterback and current Fox Sports analyst Tony Romo has pleaded no contest to an operating while intoxicated (OWI) charge in a case stemming from an incident earlier this year. Romo, who has been a prominent figure in sports broadcasting since retiring from the NFL, will face penalties as part of the plea agreement. The case has drawn attention due to Romo's high-profile status and his role as a commentator. While the specifics of the penalties are not yet confirmed, the resolution of the case allows Romo to move forward and continue his broadcasting career without further legal complications.

NFL Injury Updates: Who Else Is Dealing With Issues?

As the regular season approaches, several NFL players are dealing with injury concerns that could impact their teams' Week 1 plans. While Ja'Marr Chase's knee issue is the most prominent, other players are also navigating health challenges. The league's injury report will be closely monitored in the coming days, as teams finalize their rosters and prepare for the opener. Some players may be limited in practice or even ruled out, forcing teams to adjust their strategies. The NFL's injury landscape is always fluid, and this week is no exception, with teams balancing caution and urgency as the season begins.

How Will These Updates Affect Week 1 Matchups?

The latest updates from the NFL, including the Raiders naming Kirk Cousins their Week 1 starter and Ja'Marr Chase's knee issue, could have significant implications for Week 1 matchups. Cousins' selection as the starter sets the stage for a high-stakes game, while Chase's potential absence would weaken the Bengals' offense. Teams will need to adapt quickly to these changes, whether by relying on backup players or adjusting their game plans. The NFL's unpredictability is on full display, and these updates add another layer of intrigue to the season opener. Fans can expect a mix of surprises and strategic adjustments as the league kicks off.

What's Next for the NFL as the Regular Season Approaches?

With the regular season just around the corner, the NFL is entering a critical stretch where every decision matters. Teams are finalizing their rosters, addressing injuries, and preparing for the challenges ahead. The naming of Kirk Cousins as the Raiders' Week 1 starter and the ongoing updates on Ja'Marr Chase's knee issue highlight the league's dynamic nature. As teams and players gear up for the opener, the focus will shift to performance, strategy, and execution. The NFL's unpredictability ensures that no two seasons are alike, and this year is shaping up to be no exception.

What happens next

As the regular season approaches, teams will finalize their rosters and prepare for the challenges ahead. The naming of Kirk Cousins as the Raiders' Week 1 starter and the ongoing updates on Ja'Marr Chase's knee issue highlight the league's dynamic nature. Fans can expect a mix of surprises and strategic adjustments as the NFL kicks off, with every decision carrying weight in the race for the playoffs.