The Falcons have decided to draw the line on the Kirk Cousins era, which lasted only 14 games after signing a four-year contract in March that could earn him 180 million. Everything indicates that he will have to find a new team next season.
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It should be noted that the true value of Cousins’ contract was two years for 100 million guaranteed. After next season, it was expected that the Falcons could release him without having to pay out the remainder of the contract.
The way the contract was structured means that for this first unsuccessful season, Cousins will have received 62.5 million. That’s a lot of money, obviously, but the bright side is that next season the veteran will earn a salary of 27.5 million, in addition to a payment of 10 million for the 2026 season.
In other words, if Cousins agrees to waive his no-trade clause, he will be of interest to teams with a “reasonable” salary in the current quarterback market, at 27.5 million.
Now that rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is taking over in Atlanta, here are 6 potential destinations for Cousins next season.
1. New York Jets
It’s a safe bet that the Jets won’t pursue the Aaron Rodgers marriage. It would make little sense to go from a veteran recovering from a nasty Achilles injury to another in the same situation, but the Jets are the Jets. Cousins would obviously find himself there for a year to prepare for the arrival of a rookie quarterback.
2. Giants de New York
The Giants, with the worst record in the league, will definitely look to a young quarterback in the draft. If Cousins wants to join the team as a mentor to allow the youngster to learn at his own pace, why not?
3. Browns de Cleveland
In order to compete with Deshaun Watson, it’s a possibility. However, since Watson already commands a large salary, the only way such a situation would materialize is if the Falcons agree to retain a good portion of Cousins’ salary for 2025.
4. Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders also must find their quarterback in the draft, who will benefit from a choice in the top 5, or even the top 3. Cousins would be an avenue to explore if you prefer to take your time with the young prospect.
5. Titans you Tennessee
The Will Levis experiment was a failure and the Titans will perhaps be cautious about relaunching on the prospects market. Cousins, for one year at a respectable salary, would ensure a not too miserable transition.
6. San Francisco 49ers
It’s a slim possibility, but still intriguing. Kyle Shanahan had worked with Cousins when he was in Washington. With the 49ers season derailed, will the organization still give Brock Purdy a huge contract?
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