The future of NFL quarterback Kirk Cousins hangs in the balance as the 2026 season approaches. Following the Atlanta Falcons’ decision to restructure his contract, speculation abounds regarding his next destination. With the recent hiring of Kevin Stefanski as head coach, Cousins’ future might be closely tied to Atlanta. However, several other teams also loom large as potential employers.
Top Destinations for Kirk Cousins in the 2026 NFL Season
As teams assess their quarterback situations, Kirk Cousins could find himself on the move again. Here are the top seven destinations where Cousins may realistically end up in the 2026 NFL season:
1. Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons have restructured Cousins’ contract to make it easier to release him if necessary. However, with Stefanski’s arrival, he may choose to keep Cousins, leveraging their established rapport. If Atlanta believes in Cousins’ ability to lead, he might remain their starting quarterback.
2. Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings might be interested in bringing back Cousins if they have doubts about their young quarterback, J.J. McCarthy. A low-cost deal could be appealing for Minnesota, especially if Cousins can serve as a reliable backup while McCarthy develops.
3. San Francisco 49ers
If the 49ers decide to trade current quarterback Mac Jones, they could look toward Cousins as a seasoned option. His familiarity with the league could provide important stability as San Francisco prepares for its future.
4. Arizona Cardinals
With questions surrounding Kyler Murray’s future, the Cardinals may consider Cousins as a temporary solution. Hiring Cousins could offer Arizona a seasoned veteran while they devise a long-term strategy for their quarterback position.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers
The recent hire of Mike McCarthy as head coach may indicate that the Steelers plan to utilize existing talent. However, if Aaron Rodgers decides to retire, Pittsburgh might look to Cousins as a stopgap while waiting for a more permanent solution in the draft.
6. Cleveland Browns
Should the Falcons cut Cousins, Cleveland could capture him on a cost-effective deal. The Browns face significant salary cap challenges with Deshaun Watson’s lofty contract, making Cousins an attractive option as they attempt to climb out of a difficult salary situation.
7. New York Jets
The Jets currently lack a starter beyond Justin Fields. Although adding a soon-to-be 38-year-old like Cousins may not excite fans, he could serve as a transitional piece while they nurture a rookie quarterback.
Conclusion
Kirk Cousins’ next move will depend on several factors, including market demands and team needs. With teams such as the Falcons and Vikings currently assessing their quarterbacks, Cousins may have multiple options come 2026. As the offseason unfolds, the quarterback landscape will become clearer.
