Kirk Cousins' NFL journey has hit a rough patch since he inked a hefty four-year, $180 million deal with the Atlanta Falcons back in 2024. Injuries and the arrival of a first-round quarterback have left him searching for a new team and a fresh start.
Now at 37, Cousins finds himself in a tough spot. With every NFL team seemingly set with their starting quarterback for Week 1, he's looking at a likely backup role. But if there's one potential landing spot that stands out, it’s the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Raiders might just be the perfect fit for Cousins, as highlighted by Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport. He could step in as a bridge starter while the anticipated No. 1 overall pick, Fernando Mendoza, gets acclimated. However, this opportunity might also mark the twilight of Cousins' career.
If Cousins signs with the Raiders, it could be seen as him acknowledging the end of his time as a starting quarterback. With a few years left in the league, joining a team that’s drafting a first-round QB could mean more time on the sidelines. Competing against a talent like Mendoza for the long haul would be a tall order unless the Raiders decide to start Cousins until Mendoza is ready to take over.
Even starting in Week 1 seems uncertain. Mendoza, a former Indiana Hoosier, is a seasoned and polished player, drawing comparisons to Matt Ryan. It’s understandable why the Raiders might want to start him right away.
Other teams like the New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers, or Arizona Cardinals could present similar scenarios. However, the Jets are eyeing Geno Smith and possibly a draft pick for 2026, the Steelers might be considering Aaron Rodgers, and the Cardinals are likely targeting a quarterback in the draft.
Cousins might opt to wait it out, seeing how free agency and the draft unfold before making his decision. Evaluating his options carefully could lead him to the best situation.
Still, the window for Cousins to remain a starter, or even extend his playing career, is closing fast. His stint with the Falcons might have been his last shot at being a reliable starter. A season or two mentoring Mendoza could very well be the final chapter of Kirk Cousins' NFL story.