When the Minnesota Vikings and Kirk Cousins parted ways after the 2023 NFL season, there was no telling how the veteran quarterback would perform with his next NFL franchise. Sam Darnold took over for the purple and gold and Cousins signed with the Atlanta Falcons.
The Vikings would go 14-3 with Sam Darnold while Kirk Cousins was 7-7 for Atlanta before being benched in favor of rookie passer Michael Penix Jr. Coming off a torn Achilles tendon, Cousins threw 10 touchdowns compared to 16 interceptions, tying Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield for the most in 2024.
Michael Penix Jr. seems to be the preferred starting quarterback for the Falcons in 2024 and Kirk Cousins could find himself hunting for a new team if he is released into free agency before the 2025 NFL season.
Former Minnesota Vikings QB Kirk Cousins viewed as ‘perfect stopgap’ for NFC team in middle of QB dilemma
Despite his disappointing performance last season, there should be some options available for former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins if he does not return to the Falcons. Multiple teams are in situations where an experienced veteran passer could play a significant part of the offense.
Recently, Scott Conrad at Niner Noise shared that Brock Purdy is entering the final year of his four-year rookie contract. Compared to others in his position, Purdy has been playing on a very inexpensive deal and the decision to extend his deal will likely be made soon.
If a deal cannot be reached, San Francisco could find themselves in a position where they need a quarterback to help them win now and give them time to find the passer they want to attach their future to.
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan is very familiar with Kirk Cousins because of their time together in Washington. A reunion between the two could make a lot of sense if Kirk can be acquired for a reasonable salary.
"While the 49ers' practical route is keeping Purdy, the more lucrative option with the future in mind may be to go after Cousins, especially from a cost-savings perspective."Scott Conrad - Niner Noise
it will all come down to whether or not the 49ers believe Brock Purdy is their quarterback and how much they are willing to spend to keep him. If they do pass on him, it wouldn't be absolutely shocking to see former Minnesota Vikings signal caller Kirk Cousins in the bay area next season.