Rams Exploring Mutual Interest in Signing QB Kirk Cousins

Veteran QB Cousins could be a perfect backup and eventual successor to Matthew Stafford in Los Angeles.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:53pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric representation of a football game, with overlapping planes of color and shape conveying the dynamic energy and competitive spirit of the sport.The Rams' pursuit of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins as a potential backup and successor to Matthew Stafford reflects the team's championship aspirations and commitment to maintaining a talented roster.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Rams are reportedly exploring mutual interest in signing veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to be the backup and potential successor to starter Matthew Stafford. Rams head coach Sean McVay confirmed the team has discussed the possibility of adding Cousins, who previously played under McVay in Washington. Cousins is said to be willing to play on a veteran minimum contract just to be a part of the Rams' championship-caliber roster.

Why it matters

The Rams are in 'championship or bust' mode and need a reliable backup quarterback who can step in if Stafford were to get injured. Cousins' experience in McVay's offense and his willingness to take a team-friendly deal make him an attractive option to provide insurance behind Stafford and potentially take over the starting job in the future.

The details

According to reports, Cousins has mutual interest in joining the Rams and would be willing to play on a veteran minimum contract just to be a part of the organization. Rams head coach Sean McVay, who previously worked with Cousins in Washington, confirmed the team has discussed the possibility of signing the veteran QB to back up Stafford. McVay praised Cousins' abilities and said he would love to see what that partnership could look like in Los Angeles.

  • The Rams are currently exploring the possibility of signing Cousins as their backup quarterback for the 2026 NFL season.

The players

Kirk Cousins

A veteran NFL quarterback who has had success in head coach Sean McVay's offensive system in the past, and is reportedly willing to take a team-friendly contract to join the Rams as Matthew Stafford's backup.

Sean McVay

The head coach of the Los Angeles Rams, who previously worked with Cousins in Washington and is now exploring the possibility of bringing him in as Stafford's backup.

Matthew Stafford

The starting quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, who is entering a 'championship or bust' season and could benefit from having an experienced backup like Cousins behind him.

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What they’re saying

“Kirk has made more money than God. This guy wants championships so bad, to be with that organization, that general manager [Les Snead], and this head coach [Sean McVay], and the talent assembled around them. Not only for next year, someone with the ability of Kirk to back up a QB like Matt [Stafford] for a season that is championship or bust.”

— Source

“And I don't have a perfect answer for you. We think about it. What does that look like? Hey, I'd love to have Jimmy Garoppolo back with us. That's a big deal for us. He's earned the right to be able to take his time and do whatever he wants. Is there an opportunity to explore, if it's not Jimmy, (like) Kirk Cousins? Of course. I'd love to be able to be able to see what that looks like.”

— Sean McVay, Head Coach, Los Angeles Rams

What’s next

The Rams will continue to evaluate their options at backup quarterback, including potentially signing Kirk Cousins to a veteran minimum contract, in the coming weeks leading up to the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The Rams' interest in signing Kirk Cousins as Matthew Stafford's backup shows their commitment to maintaining a championship-caliber roster and having an experienced insurance policy in case of injury. Cousins' familiarity with the Rams' offensive system and his willingness to take a team-friendly deal make him an attractive option to provide depth and potentially succeed Stafford down the line.