Kirk Cousins #18 of the Atlanta Falcons looks on against the New York Giants.
The Minnesota Vikings drew a line in the sand with Kirk Cousins after the four-time Pro Bowler missed nine games in 2024, and their decision paid off in the form of a historic season with Sam Darnold at the helm.
The decision to join the Atlanta Falcons has not panned out for Cousins. However, former Vikings general manager Rick Spielman, now a senior adviser for the New York Jets, could help Cousins.
Like many storylines around the Vikings heading into the offseason, Aaron Rodgers is a factor.
“Spielman’s presence in the front office is sure to spark Kirk Cousins speculation,” ESPN’s Rich Cimini wrote on February 10. “As the Minnesota Vikings’ GM, Spielman signed Cousins to a huge free agent deal in 2018. Cousins, who enjoyed his most productive years in Minnesota, is likely to be cut or traded by the Atlanta Falcons in the coming weeks.
“If the Jets move on from Rodgers, Cousins, 36, could be a short-term option.”
Kirk Cousins is taking things one year at a time
Rodgers is expected to leave the Jets this offseason, potentially opening the door for Cousins.
Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons in free agency during the 2024 offseason. He started hot, completing 69.1% of his passes for 2,328 yards, 17 touchdowns, 7 interceptions, and a 6-3 record.
However, Cousins went 1-4 with 1,180 yards, 1TD, and 9 INTs before the Falcons benched him for 2024 first-round draft pick Michael Penix Jr.
The Falcons must weigh their options with the ex-Vikings QB, Cousins, financially.
