The Atlanta Falcons are expected to release quarterback Kirk Cousins after only two seasons. Atlanta signed the former Minnesota Vikings quarterback to a four-year, $180 million contract, but he lasted only two seasons in Atlanta and will be an unrestricted free agent.
The 37-year-old passer has several options once the Falcons release him. He could go to another team like the Vikings, or he could try his hand as an analyst or sports personality if he decides to hang up his cleats.
Immediately after the news of his impending release, fans and the media started linking him back to Minnesota. His familiarity with the head coach and the offense would make sense, and he could help buy time until young passer J.J. McCarthy is ready to assume the role.
The Minnesota Vikings bringing back Kirk Cousins for the 2026 NFL season might not make as much sense as some fans might think.
Even though Kirk Cousins makes some sense for the Minnesota Vikings this offseason, there is a problem. Will having J.J. McCarthy sit behind Cousins allow the former University of Michigan quarterback to grow and develop?
Dianna Russini is the senior NFL insider for The Athletic and recently shared some information she learned about Minnesota's plans at quarterback, and it doesn't sound like they would involve Cousins in the least.
“I think they really want to develop J.J. I really think they want to get J.J. going. And I learned that actually this week, more than ever.”
McCarthy has struggled with inconsistency and injuries since being drafted by the Vikings. Even if Minnesota doesn't bring in a veteran quarterback to start during the 2026 NFL season, they will need a top-tier backup as insurance to push J.J. and help him develop.
Russini seems to believe the Vikings want to push McCarthy, but not push him out of a starting role in Minnesota. A veteran quarterback like Kirk Cousins might not be happy to assume a role behind McCarthy since he wasn't too pleased being behind Michael Penix Jr. in Atlanta.
There could be quite a few openings for Kirk Cousins to consider this offseason, and although the Minnesota Vikings are a nice fit on paper, they might not be able to offer what the veteran quarterback is looking for in the twilight of his career. That doesn't mean he won't end up back in a purple and gold jersey, but it does make the situation more complicated.