Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins might return to the Minnesota Vikings, possibly challenging J.J. McCarthy for the starting quarterback spot, according to NFL insider Dianna Russini. This possibility arises from Cousins’ established connection with the Vikings and their head coach, Kevin O’Connell, as shared by a league source.
Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons have agreed to restructure the final two years of his contract. If Cousins remains on the Falcons’ roster by March 13, 2026, the team would owe him $67.9 million in 2027 under the terms of the restructured deal.
Contract Changes Impact Cousins’ Future with Falcons and Potential Moves
Currently, Cousins is seeking a full-time starting role and is evaluating his options amid uncertainty in Atlanta. The presence of quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who is recovering from injuries, adds to the complexity of Cousins’ situation. His reduced base salary for 2026—from $35 million to $2.1 million—comes with a vesting guarantee worth $67.9 million that will be effective in the following season if he remains with the Falcons.
The salary adjustment allows the Falcons to benefit financially sooner by enabling a June 1 release designation. This spreads any salary cap penalties across two seasons rather than causing a large impact in one. The guarantee also protects Cousins if he is released before March 13, 2026, though both parties could negotiate a new agreement before that date. Given recent management changes and the circumstances of the last few years, it seems likely both sides may prefer to part ways by 2026, allowing Cousins a fresh start elsewhere.
With several teams expected to seek quarterbacks in the upcoming market, Cousins holds a decent chance to secure a starting role outside of Atlanta.
Kirk Cousins’ Career and Contract History
At 37, Kirk Cousins was originally selected in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL Draft by Washington. After his rookie contract, he was franchise-tagged twice. He later signed with the Vikings through free agency, initially for a three-year, $84 million deal. In 2020, he extended with Minnesota for two additional years worth $66 million and followed up with a fully guaranteed one-year extension at $35 million in 2021.
After completing his contract with the Vikings, Cousins entered free agency in 2023 and signed a four-year, $180 million agreement with the Falcons, including $100 million guaranteed. In the 2025 season, he played in 10 games, starting eight, completing 61.7% of his passes for 1,721 yards, and throwing 10 touchdowns with five interceptions.
What the Future Could Hold for Cousins and the NFL Quarterback Landscape
The evolving situation with Cousins highlights the challenges veteran quarterbacks face amid team transitions and competitive quarterback markets. Should Cousins return to the Vikings, it would reunite him with a familiar environment under Kevin O’Connell’s coaching. This move could also shape Minnesota’s quarterback dynamics, influencing J.J. McCarthy’s role and the team’s strategy for upcoming seasons.
As the NFL offseason progresses, further developments are expected regarding Cousins’ status, with multiple teams likely considering him for starting opportunities. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Cousins will embark on a new chapter with the Vikings or find a different opportunity elsewhere.
“Cousins and Atlanta mutually agreed to restructure the remaining two years of his deal, and if he remains on the roster on March 13th, the Falcons will owe him $67.9 million in 2027.” ?Dianna Russini, NFL Insider
“Given the number of teams expected to be in the quarterback market, there’s a good chance Cousins can find another starting role.” ?Dianna Russini, NFL Insider
