Kirk Cousins expected to test NFL free agency amid Falcons and Broncos buzz.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins is anticipated to test the waters of free agency, with the Atlanta Falcons and Denver Broncos showing interest.
“The Vikings and Kirk Cousins’ agent remain in communication, but at this point, it does appear that the four-time Pro Bowl quarterback is going to hit the free agent market on Monday,” Pelissero said in a statement. “Other teams I would expect to pursue Cousins do include the Atlanta Falcons and quite possibly the Denver Broncos as well.”
The #Vikings and Kirk Cousins remain in communication, but it appears the four-time Pro Bowl QB will test the free-agent market, which opens at noon ET on Monday. @NFLTotalAccess @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/qwGM49Cier
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 10, 2024
According to Pelissero, Cousins might return to Minnesota next season, but only if the Vikings make the appropriate deal. Pelissero stated that he “anticipates” the sale will need to be about $40 million with guaranteed funds.
The Vikings are allegedly holding internal discussions about their offer to Cousins, according to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, although they have not been told of Cousins’ choice. According to Russini, there is a feeling among the team that Cousins wants to stay in Minnesota, but the terms of the deal will determine if he does.
Cousins, who joined the Vikings in 2018, had 2,331 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and five interceptions before his season was cut short due to a torn Achilles. He made $35 million last season as part of a contract extension he signed in 2022.
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The veteran quarterback has been on a fully guaranteed contract for the last nine years, so Pelissero believes the Vikings would have to offer him fully guaranteed money to get him back.
However, both the Broncos and the Falcons could be interested in Cousins’ services. Denver will part ways with quarterback Russell Wilson on Wednesday when free agency begins, and the team will search for a quality option to replace him.
While Desmond Ridder will remain under contract next season, the Falcons are seeking for a new player after his struggles last year. In 2023, Ridder passed for 2,836 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Atlanta is hoping for a rebound year after missing the playoffs for six consecutive seasons, and acquiring Cousins could help.
