Kirk Cousins is anticipated to be released by the Atlanta Falcons before the NFL’s new league year begins on March 11, bringing his time with the team to an end. This conclusion comes after a fluctuating two-year period marked by both starting opportunities and challenges.
Cousins joined the Falcons in 2024 with a four-year, $180 million contract, but the team soon shifted its quarterback focus after selecting Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Penix eventually took over as Atlanta’s starting quarterback late in the 2024 season, replacing Cousins. However, following Penix’s ACL injury in the 2025 season, Cousins returned to the starting role.
In his two seasons with Atlanta, Cousins played in 24 games, accumulating 5,229 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 21 interceptions. Last month, he agreed to a restructured contract that provided the Falcons with more cap flexibility, facilitating his impending release.
Jets’ Quarterback Dilemma and Potential Interest in Cousins
The New York Jets are currently facing a significant quarterback predicament. After a disappointing 3-14 finish in the 2025 season under new head coach Aaron Glenn, the team is expected to part ways with Justin Fields, who was signed to a two-year, $40 million deal last March but failed to meet expectations.
With the Jets holding the second overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, they find the pool of top-tier quarterbacks limited, as Indiana quarterback and 2025 Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza is projected to be selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. While the Jets have ten draft picks and could select a quarterback in the second round, that player would likely require time to develop and would not be ready to start immediately.
This context creates an opening for a veteran presence to stabilize the quarterback position. Cousins, despite being 37 and possibly past his peak, is still regarded as a competent starter who could provide the Jets with the experience needed while their young quarterback matures.
Supporting Cast and Offensive Prospects for Cousins in New York
Jets General Manager Darren Mougey expressed confidence in the team’s offensive roster supporting the quarterback.
“I feel good about that offensive line,”
Mougey stated last month.
“I think that’s a strength of ours, it’s a young group.”
He further highlighted the continuity and potential growth of the team’s offensive weapons, saying,
“I think, with continuity in the group, they’ll only continue to get better. I think we’ve got a young tight end, I think we’ve got a good tight end room. Obviously, we’ve got Garrett [Wilson], we’ve got Breece [Hall], we’ve got a good stable of backs, so I feel good about the offensive support on that side of the ball.”
These statements underscore the Jets’ belief that their supporting cast could help a veteran quarterback like Cousins succeed in New York’s offense.
Cousins’ Role as an Experienced Mentor and Interim Starter
The Jets’ struggle with quarterback consistency has led to 15 straight seasons without a playoff appearance. Fields’ underwhelming performance ranked him 34th out of 42 quarterbacks in Total QBR during the 2025 season, with just seven touchdown passes, 1,259 passing yards, and one interception. This situation amplifies the Jets’ need for a reliable veteran as an interim solution.
Cousins is not expected to replicate his prime years but rather to function as a steady presence, managing the game efficiently and limiting mistakes. His experience could offer the Jets immediate stability and leadership in the pocket while a young quarterback develops.
Previous Connection with Jets’ Offensive Coordinator Frank Reich
Although Cousins and new Jets offensive coordinator Frank Reich have never officially collaborated, Reich did commend Cousins following an NFL comeback victory in 2022 when Cousins led the Minnesota Vikings to overcome a 33-point deficit in Week 15. Reich, known for leading the largest comeback in NFL playoff history with the Buffalo Bills, reportedly congratulated Cousins by text after the game, signaling respect for Cousins’ resilience and leadership.
Cousins’ Outlook and Market Interest Beyond the Jets
Despite being in the later stages of his career, Cousins has expressed feeling rejuvenated and eager to continue playing, aiming for a 15th NFL season in 2026. His agent, Mike McCartney, has been actively managing potential options, with Cousins noting,
“You don’t really know what’s going to happen come March… But that’ll come in March and we’ll see where it goes.”
Considering the Jets’ quarterback situation and Cousins’ availability, the team can offer a starting role for at least the next season. However, it remains uncertain how many other NFL teams will pursue Cousins, who remains a viable veteran option for franchises looking for short-term quarterback stability.
