The Miami Dolphins are staring down one of their most pivotal offseasons in recent memory. With a roster that’s talented but top-heavy, and a cap sheet that’s starting to feel the squeeze, Miami has some tough decisions ahead-none bigger than the one under center.
Let’s start with the obvious: quarterback. Tua Tagovailoa, once the face of the franchise, appears to be on his way out.
Whether it’s via trade or release, the writing’s on the wall for the $212 million signal-caller. That opens the door for a new chapter at QB-and potentially, a new identity for the Dolphins’ offense.
Enter Kirk Cousins.
According to reports, the veteran quarterback could be on Miami’s radar this offseason. Cousins, who spent last season with the Atlanta Falcons after a long stint in Minnesota, is expected to hit the open market. And while he may not be the flashiest name available, he might just be the most logical fit for what the Dolphins need right now.
At 37, Cousins isn’t a long-term solution-but that might actually be the point. Miami doesn’t need another massive quarterback commitment.
What they need is a steady, experienced hand who can keep the offense humming while the front office resets and plans for the future. Cousins fits that bill.
He’s been remarkably consistent throughout his 14-year NFL career, posting a career record of 88-77-2 with a 66.7% completion rate, nearly 45,000 passing yards, 298 touchdowns, and 131 interceptions. Those numbers don’t scream MVP, but they do scream reliability-something Miami’s offense could use in spades.
What makes Cousins particularly appealing is how well his strengths align with Miami’s offensive weapons. He’s accurate, decisive, and gets the ball out quickly-traits that would pair perfectly with the explosive playmaking of Jaylen Waddle and De’Von Achane.
Those two don’t need 50-yard bombs to flip a game; they need a quarterback who can deliver the ball in rhythm and let them work in space. Cousins can do that.
Financially, Cousins would also be a more manageable option. He’s unlikely to command anything close to the $180 million deal he signed previously, and any new contract would likely be shorter in length. That flexibility is crucial for a Dolphins team that’s already navigating some cap constraints, especially after parting ways with Tyreek Hill.
Now, there’s a wildcard in all of this: Minnesota. If the Vikings decide to bring Cousins back as a bridge option-possibly to mentor a young quarterback like J.J.
McCarthy-he may opt for familiarity over a fresh start. But if Cousins is open to a new challenge, Miami offers a compelling situation: a playoff-ready roster, elite skill players, and a chance to compete in the AFC right away.
In short, Cousins isn’t the long-term answer. But he might be the right answer for right now. For a Dolphins team in transition, that could be exactly what they need.