Former Vikings QB Kirk Cousins Exploring Free Agency Options

Veteran QB looking to play in 2026 after being released by Falcons

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:33pm

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Former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins is exploring his options for the 2026 NFL season after being released by the Atlanta Falcons earlier this offseason. Cousins, who is now a free agent, is interested in finding a starting job and believes he is healthier than he has been in years after recovering from an Achilles tear in 2023.

Why it matters

Cousins is one of the top veteran quarterbacks still available on the free agent market, along with Aaron Rodgers. His decision on where to sign could have a significant impact on several NFL teams looking to upgrade their QB position, including the Pittsburgh Steelers and Las Vegas Raiders.

The details

Cousins, 38, left the Vikings for a $180 million contract with the Falcons in 2024, where he played for two seasons before being released this offseason. He is now looking for another opportunity to start, with the Steelers and Raiders emerging as potential landing spots. The Steelers have been linked to Cousins in the past and could turn to him if Aaron Rodgers decides to retire. The Raiders, who hold the No. 1 overall pick, may also consider Cousins as a short-term starter if their rookie QB is not ready to play right away.

  • Cousins was released by the Falcons earlier this offseason.
  • Cousins recently said he is excited to play somewhere in 2026 and feels healthier than he has since tearing his Achilles tendon in 2023.

The players

Kirk Cousins

A 38-year-old veteran quarterback who is currently a free agent after being released by the Atlanta Falcons. Cousins is looking to sign with a team and compete for a starting job in the 2026 NFL season.

Aaron Rodgers

A 43-year-old quarterback who is also a free agent and has been linked to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he could potentially reunite with former Packers head coach Mike McCarthy.

Fernando Mendoza

The quarterback expected to be selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft, though he may not be ready to start Week 1.

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What they’re saying

“I think getting away from the Achilles tear over two years now, I feel rejuvenated. Getting to play last year at the end, going 4-0 down the stretch, put the wind in my sails again. I feel really good. Probably the healthiest I've been in awhile.”

— Kirk Cousins

“Kirk Cousins is the one, and I know they called on him last year, and the Falcons at the time didn't want to trade him. But now Kirk Cousins is free. Cousins potentially could be an option if they pivot away from Aaron Rodgers, which hasn't happened yet.”

— Tom Pelissero, NFL Reporter

What’s next

The Steelers are waiting to hear from Aaron Rodgers about his potential retirement before deciding if they will pursue Kirk Cousins as their starting quarterback for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Cousins' free agency status and desire to find a starting job in 2026 could have a significant impact on several QB-needy teams this offseason, with the Steelers and Raiders emerging as potential landing spots for the veteran quarterback.