Schefter: Raiders' 2-0 start pays off on and off the field

ESPN's Adam Schefter says Las Vegas's early wins show the value of coaching and a veteran quarterback while protecting rookie Fernando Mendoza's development.

The Las Vegas Raiders are 2-0 to open the season, a striking turnaround for a team that managed only three victories all of last year. ESPN's Adam Schefter discussed the start on his podcast and argued the benefits extend beyond the standings.

Schefter credited first-year coaching for much of the change, saying the offense under Klint Kubiak looks completely different. He pointed to that transformation as evidence of how much good coaching matters.

He also highlighted the role of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, describing him as a steady presence. Schefter noted that Cousins struggled in Atlanta but has been more than adequate in Las Vegas, and that each win strengthens his position.

According to Schefter, the winning record also removes pressure to rush rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the first overall pick, onto the field. That gives the team time to develop him properly rather than exposing him to NFL defenses before he is ready.

Schefter summed up the situation as the best of all worlds for the franchise, with the team winning games while its quarterback of the future develops at a healthier pace.