As the Green Bay Packers gear up for the draft, a pressing question looms: Who will back up Jordan Love after Malik Willis's departure to the Miami Dolphins? With the free-agent market thinning, Green Bay faces a challenge. They could draft a quarterback, but would they be comfortable relying on a rookie if Love had to miss time?
There's a glimmer of hope, though, with a few options still available. One intriguing possibility, as suggested by Matt Schneidman, is Kirk Cousins.
Kirk Cousins: A Surprising Backup Option
Schneidman highlighted Cousins as a potential target for the Packers, suggesting that his veteran presence could be invaluable if Love were sidelined. While Cousins might prefer a starting role elsewhere, the chance to reunite with head coach Matt LaFleur, who was his position coach early in his career, could be appealing.
Packers fans are no strangers to Cousins, who faced Green Bay twice a season during his time with the Vikings from 2018 to 2023. After his stint in Minnesota, Cousins joined the Atlanta Falcons on a hefty four-year, $180 million deal.
However, the move didn't pan out as expected. The Falcons drafted Michael Penix Jr. in 2024, leaving Cousins feeling misled, especially as he was recovering from an Achilles injury.
Fast forward to 2026, and Cousins finds himself a free agent after two lackluster seasons in Atlanta. Despite the high demand for quarterbacks, he remains unsigned, raising the question: Should the Packers consider bringing him in?
The Case for Cousins in Green Bay
Another name in the mix is Anthony Richardson, who, like Malik Willis, could benefit from LaFleur's coaching. While Richardson's potential is undeniable, his health issues make him a risky choice. If the Packers want a proven backup, Cousins fits the bill.
Though past his prime, Cousins could still provide stability off the bench. Yet, there are hurdles.
Would Cousins accept a backup role? And what about his salary demands?
At this stage, he likely can't command top dollar but would expect more than the veteran's minimum. A deal in the $8 million to $10 million range could be feasible, providing the Packers with insurance in case Love is sidelined.
Ultimately, signing Cousins, despite his history with the rival Vikings, might not be as far-fetched as it seems. Whether Green Bay and Cousins can find common ground remains to be seen.