Fernando Mendoza against the Houston Texans during a preseason game on August 20, 2026 in Houston, Texas. Tim Warner / Getty ImagesFOR SUBSCRIBERSLas Vegas Raiders: 2026 NFL Kickoff GuideWelcome to the NFL Kickoff Guide powered by NBC Sports. Our expert researchers created a guide to the most important stats and storylines for all 32 teams this upcoming season. Aug. 26, 2026, 5:00 AM EDTBy NBC SportsThe Raiders are turning over a new leaf this season, handing the franchise to head coach Klint Kubiak — the offensive coordinator for the Super Bowl-winning Seattle Seahawks — and rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the first overall pick in the 2026 draft. Can Kubiak do with Mendoza what he did with Sam Darnold in Seattle? The season kicks off on Wednesday, September 9, with the New England Patriots facing the Seattle Seahawks in a Super Bowl LX rematch. Live coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. And visit NBC Sports for full NFL coverage.Just a moment.We are getting your experience ready.