Former Washington Redskins (Commanders) legend Kirk Cousins could request a release or trade in the coming days. According to reports, the quarterback met with Falcons Owner Arthur Blank to discuss his future with the team and would prefer to go elsewhere as a starter. Blank made no promises to Cousins as the veteran so a release seems likely in this situation even if the Falcons were to put him on the trade block. Typically, no other teams in the league would even give up draft capital for an aging veteran so it’s best for the Falcons to release Cousins sooner rather than later.
Originally selected in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL Draft, the former Michigan State product came into Atlanta hoping to become their long-term starter to potentially end his career with them after signing a massive deal. However, plans shifted in a direction when the team drafted Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the NFL Draft which caused some confusion and frustration from Cousins. Penix eventually won the starting job and Cousins sat out for the rest of the 2024 campaign as the backup. The Falcons are willing to keep Cousins but only as a backup which the veteran isn’t buying so it shouldn’t be surprising if the team moves on.
Breaking: Former Pro Bowl Veteran Kirk Cousins Requests Release – A Chance to Start Imminently?
Possible Next Teams
Tennessee Titans
The Titans are looking for another quarterback possibly in the draft but they have their eyes on free agents like Aaron Rodgers. However, if the Falcons release Cousins, the team has another chance since he’s less destructive. Cousins is likely the better fit in Tennessee overall since the team will probably find themselves at least in postseason contention next year.
New Orleans Saints
The same can be said about the Saints. Quarterback Derek Carr will return but it doesn’t mean he won’t be on the hot seat. Cousins could emerge as a favorite for the Saints while Spencer Rattler develops.
Carolina Panthers
Head Coach Dave Canales and the organization have their faith in quarterback Bryce Young. The team did re-sign Andy Dalton again who started some games and while Canales is faithful, no one should rule out another bench for Young. Cousins is the easy fit for the Panthers considering they have Adam Thielen who is possibly entering his final season and could bring out the best in these offensive pass catchers.
Minnesota Vikings
If rumors are true, the Minnesota Vikings have a contract offer for veteran quarterback Sam Darnold after a successful 2204 campaign. It appears J.J. McCarthy will sit on the bench for at least another year but the team could sign Cousins if available. McCarthy has a promising future so they could trade him if anything next offseason. If Darnold doesn’t perform up to standards, the Vikings will probably take a chance on Cousins to keep the team competitive and a chance for a Super Bowl run.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders have done phenomenally so far in hiring head coach Pete Carroll and Center Alex Cappa this offseason. After releasing Gardner Minshew, the team finds themselves in good shape to sign either a free-agent quarterback or a draft one. If it’s the last resort, the Raiders should be interested in Cousins.
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