As the NFL’s free agency period approaches, BetMGM has released a ranking of the eight worst contracts ever signed in the league. Topping this list is the Atlanta Falcons‘ deal with quarterback Kirk Cousins, marking it as the most regrettable contract in NFL history. Cousins’ agreement, a four-year, $180 million commitment, was made after his seven productive seasons with the Minnesota Vikings and following the Falcons’ selection of rookie quarterback Michael Penix in the same offseason.
Underwhelming Performance After a High-Profile Signing
The Falcons expected Cousins to deliver solid performances, but his time in Atlanta proved otherwise. Over the course of two seasons, Cousins appeared in just 22 games, throwing 28 touchdowns against 21 interceptions. Notably, he led the NFL in interceptions during the 2024 season, culminating in his benching by Week 14. When Michael Penix suffered a season-ending ACL injury in 2025, Cousins returned to starting duties, posting 10 touchdowns and five interceptions. Despite these efforts, the Falcons have announced plans to release Cousins before the next league year begins.
Other Notable Quarterbacks Among NFL’s Worst Contracts
Two other quarterbacks feature on BetMGM’s list. Nick Foles’ 2019 contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars, a four-year deal worth $88 million, ranks third, while Brock Osweiler’s four-year, $72 million deal with the Houston Texans in 2016 is placed fifth. These deals similarly represent significant investments with disappointing on-field returns.
Prominent Non-Quarterback Contracts in the List
Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth’s seven-year, $100 million contract with the Washington Redskins in 2009 is second on the worst contracts list. Haynesworth’s tenure was marked by a short stay in Washington, an early trade to the New England Patriots, and multiple releases that shortened his career considerably. Other players on the list include cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha’s five-year, $60 million deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, ranked fourth, and JC Jackson’s five-year, $82.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers, placed sixth. The list is completed by former running back Le’Veon Bell of the New York Jets and wide receiver Kenny Golladay of the New York Giants.
Implications for the Falcons and NFL Free Agency
The designation of Kirk Cousins’ contract as the worst in NFL history serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with large free agency investments, particularly at the quarterback position. For the Falcons, this contract failure compounds the pressure to rebuild effectively around Michael Penix and other emerging talent to regain competitiveness. Looking ahead, Cousins’ impending release will allow the Falcons to clear cap space but leaves uncertainty regarding their quarterback situation as the new league year begins.
“Kirk Cousins agent belongs in the Hall of Fame pic.twitter.com/gmCNlyvcLi”
– @BetMGM
https://twitter.com/BetMGM/status/2028123618438218152
