The Arizona Cardinals may make a significant investment in their quarterback position in 2026, with Kirk Cousins potentially joining the team. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Atlanta Falcons plan to release Cousins before the start of the new league year in March, opening the door for Cousins to choose his next destination.
This development comes as the Cardinals prepare to trade Kyler Murray this offseason, creating a vacancy at quarterback. Cousins, a four-time Pro Bowler, signed a lucrative four-year, $180 million contract in 2024 but will only have completed two years before becoming a free agent.
Kirk Cousins Eyes New Opportunities Following Falcons’ Decision
Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is set to be released in early 2026, granting him the freedom to decide whether and where to continue his NFL career. This situation creates an opening for teams like the Cardinals to consider adding a proven veteran quarterback. Cousins boasts a career record of 88-77-2 and has consistently avoided losing seasons since 2020.
“Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is expected to be released before the start of the new league year in March, allowing him to choose where or if he wants to play in 2026, per league sources.” – Adam Schefter, ESPN
The Cardinals’ future plans at quarterback remain uncertain. Last year’s starter, Jacoby Brissett, is 33 and not viewed as a long-term solution. The upcoming draft class lacks strong quarterback prospects, increasing the likelihood that Arizona may take a chance on Cousins to guide the offense in the short term.
Experienced Quarterback Could Align with Cardinals’ Immediate Goals
Arizona’s leadership, including owner Michael Bidwill and executive Monti Ossenfort, has emphasized a desire to compete strongly in the 2026 season. Bringing in Cousins on a one-year deal could provide stability while preparing for the 2027 NFL draft.
The Cardinals also appointed Mike LaFleur as their new head coach, who could benefit from an experienced quarterback adept at managing games. Cousins’ experience and steady play may help Arizona vie for a wildcard playoff spot, potentially ending the team’s recent struggles, highlighted by a lack of winning seasons since 2021.
Signing Cousins on a minimal contract would present low financial risk. While he could return to the Minnesota Vikings, where he started for six years, Arizona might entice him with the promise of a starting role—a possibility less likely in Minnesota due to the presence of rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
“Cardinals eyeing former Pro Bowl QB for coaching role in 2026”
Potential Impact on the Team’s Future and Strategy
If the Cardinals take this calculated risk, adding Cousins could provide a veteran presence and immediate leadership on offense, bridging the gap until a longer-term quarterback solution is identified. His arrival would offer Mike LaFleur a reliable player to implement his strategies and could increase competitiveness in the NFC West.
The decision also signals the organization’s commitment to winning in the near term, aligning with previous statements from team officials at post-season press conferences.
Kirk Cousins’ availability and potential signing highlight how the Cardinals might tackle a critical roster challenge, balancing the need for veteran leadership with financial prudence as they transition to the next phase of their rebuilding process.
Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is expected to be released before the start of the new league year in March, allowing him to choose where or if he wants to play in 2026, per league sources.https://t.co/4sFE7eCgEo
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 7, 2026
