Sam Darnold Claps Back at Critics of Raiders' Gamble: 'Klint's Going to Be Great'

Sam Darnold defended the Las Vegas Raiders’ offseason decisions, characterizing head coach Klint Kubiak’s approach as steady and well-suited to player development. The article frames the plan as a gamble that combines veteran Kirk Cousins, rookie Fernando Mendoza and Kubiak, and notes that Darnold, who previously played under Kubiak, spoke positively in public about the move. Drawing a parallel to his own NFL experience, Darnold likened Mendoza’s likely early role behind Cousins to Darnold serving as a backup with Josh McCown. Darnold praised Kubiak’s even demeanor, saying the coach avoids overreacting when problems arise, and argued that this mindset helps players. He also said Kubiak feels great about Mendoza and values how Cousins can support the rookie’s learning, echoing Darnold’s own progression. The piece references offseason settings in Henderson, Nevada.