Ex-Vikings QB Kirk Cousins Faces Harsh Reality Check
Kirk Cousins, a former franchise QB for the Minnesota Vikings, is facing a challenging situation with the Atlanta Falcons. After signing a lucrative four-year, $180 million contract with $90 million guaranteed, Cousins’ role has diminished. The Falcons recently drafted Michael Penix Jr. as their new starting quarterback, leaving Cousins looking for opportunities and struggling for relevance.
Kirk Cousins’ Current Status
Cousins is now positioned as the backup quarterback for the Falcons. At 37 years old, he is second on the depth chart and unlikely to regain his starting role anytime soon. The Falcons are committed to developing Penix Jr., who they selected with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2024 draft.
Contract Constraints
Contractual obligations complicate Cousins’ situation. He has a significant cap hit of $57.5 million scheduled for 2026 and 2027, making it challenging for the Falcons to trade him. While prospective teams may consider him for their quarterback needs, his hefty contract acts as a roadblock.
- Cap hit: $57.5 million (2026, 2027)
- Potential saving for trading team: $32.5 million next season
- Current position: Backup QB
Impact of Draft Decisions
Cousins was caught off guard by the Falcons’ decision to draft a quarterback so high. This move raised questions about the direction of his career and the choices that led him to Atlanta. Had he known about the drafting plans earlier, he might have reconsidered leaving Minnesota.
Vikings’ Future Quarterback Plans
The Minnesota Vikings chose to draft J.J. McCarthy, a decision that may prove beneficial if he develops as expected. However, his progress has been hampered by injury, which has provided an opportunity for Carson Wentz to step in as the starter. The efficiency of this decision will only become clear over time.
- McCarthy’s injury status: Missed rookie season
- Wentz’s record: 2-1 as starter for the Vikings
As Cousins grapples with his diminished role, the ramifications of leaving Minnesota weigh heavily on his NFL career. Once a celebrated quarterback, he now finds himself navigating uncertainty in his post-Vikings journey.
