Veteran QB Cousins Eyed by Steelers, Raiders, Chiefs, Bengals

Four teams emerge as top landing spots for former $66 million quarterback after release from Falcons.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 12:22am

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The Pittsburgh Steelers, Las Vegas Raiders, Kansas City Chiefs, and Cincinnati Bengals have been listed as the top potential landing spots for veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who was recently released by the Atlanta Falcons after two seasons. Cousins, a four-time Pro Bowler, is one of the top free agent QBs available and could provide valuable experience and depth for these playoff contenders.

Why it matters

Cousins' release from the Falcons after a disappointing tenure highlights the volatility of the quarterback position in the NFL. These four teams are in need of veteran QB depth and stability, and Cousins could be a savvy signing to either back up a starter or potentially compete for a starting job.

The details

Cousins, 37, signed a $180 million contract with the Falcons in 2024 but struggled, leading to his release this offseason. However, he played well in 8 starts in 2025, going 5-3 with 10 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. The Steelers, Raiders, Chiefs, and Bengals are all viewed as potential landing spots for Cousins, who could provide experience and stability at the QB position for these playoff contenders.

  • Cousins was released by the Falcons this offseason after two seasons.
  • In 2025, Cousins posted a 5-3 record as a starter for the Falcons, throwing 10 touchdowns and 5 interceptions.

The players

Kirk Cousins

A 37-year-old veteran quarterback who was recently released by the Atlanta Falcons after two seasons.

Aaron Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers' current starting quarterback, whose future is uncertain as he contemplates retirement.

Fernando Mendoza

The presumed 2026 first overall draft pick of the Las Vegas Raiders, who could benefit from having an experienced QB like Cousins to mentor him.

Patrick Mahomes

The Kansas City Chiefs' star quarterback, who is recovering from a torn ACL and may not be ready for Week 1.

Joe Burrow

The Cincinnati Bengals' starting quarterback, whose injury history makes the team interested in adding experienced QB depth.

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What they’re saying

“If Rodgers decides to retire, Cousins could emerge as a stopgap option for Pittsburgh in 2026.”

— Jacob Camenker, USA Today writer

“According to The Athletic's Dianna Russini, the Raiders are interested in signing Cousins to back up and mentor their presumed No. 1 overall pick, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.”

— Dianna Russini, The Athletic reporter

What’s next

The Steelers, Raiders, Chiefs, and Bengals will continue to evaluate their quarterback situations and Cousins' fit with their respective teams as free agency progresses.

The takeaway

Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, despite a disappointing stint with the Falcons, remains an intriguing free agent option for several playoff contenders in need of experienced QB depth and stability. His potential landing spots highlight the volatility and importance of the QB position in the modern NFL.