Quarterback Kirk Cousins is finally expected to get his wish and land on a new team in 2026. His landing spot may bring him back to one of his former coaches.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Saturday that the Falcons plan to release Cousins before the start of the new league year in March. That will allow the veteran quarterback to pick whichever team he wants to sign with for next season.
Earlier Saturday, Dianna Russini of The Athletic noted there was some speculation about Cousins returning to the Minnesota Vikings. Cousins is familiar with head coach Kevin O’Connell, and the Vikings will be seeking a veteran quarterback as insurance for JJ McCarthy.
This would be a somewhat awkward reunion for both parties. Cousins played for Minnesota from 2018 to 2023, but the team made the decision to part ways with him after he tore his Achilles in his final year with the franchise. The Vikings wanted to go younger, while Cousins wanted to start.
The move did not really work out for either side. The Vikings drafted McCarthy, but he missed his rookie season due to injury and was wildly inconsistent in 2025. Cousins, meanwhile, was benched by the Falcons before the end of the first season of his 4-year, $180 million deal.
A return may be awkward for Cousins, as his departure seemed to lead to some hard feelings from Vikings fans. The Vikings might not have a better option if they want a trustworthy veteran, however.
