It wasn't a surprise when the Atlanta Falcons opted to part ways with Kirk Cousins after the veteran spent two frustrating seasons with the franchise. After a hot start to the 2024 season, things quickly went downhill with an injury against the New Orleans Saints seemingly sapping Cousins's confidence, leaving the once reliable starter as a shell of himself. Still, the veteran found a way to cash in on free agency, signing a deal with the Las Vegas Raiders that, essentially, boils down to a one-year contract that includes a $20 million guarantee.
Considering that Las Vegas holds the No. 1 overall pick and is widely expected to draft former Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza, it could be a bit of a surprise. From the outside, it appears the Raiders are bringing in Cousins to mentor the rookie quarterback and perhaps spend the first handful of games in the lineup as Mendoza gets back up to speed. No matter how the Raiders approach this fit, Falcons fans know the bust potential that comes with signing Cousins.
Atlanta put Cousins in nearly the same position alongside Michael Penix Jr., and there was little growth from Penix while Cousins was clearly regressing throughout his tenure. By the end of Kirk's time in Atlanta, it felt as if it took every ounce of strength the quarterback had to complete basic routes. There was a clear lack of arm talent and severe mobility limitations that often haunted the Falcons' offense.
Former Falcons QB Kirk Cousins Helping Set up Raiders for 2026 Failure
At his very best, Cousins is a game manager who is going to need the talent around him to consistently make big plays for your offense to have a chance at consistency. Las Vegas doesn't have this margin for error and lacks clear threats in the passing game, outside of tight end Brock Bowers. Even if Cousins is on the sideline from the start of the 2026 season in favor of Mendoza, this means you've overpaid for a player you hope never has to take the field.
There is no way to look at this signing from Atlanta's perspective and not expect the Raiders to regret the decision. Whether Cousins is in the lineup or safely on the sidelines, Las Vegas willingly chose to spend $20 million on a player who isn't capable of playing at a high level at this late stage of his career.
Cousins appears to be a great locker room presence and a respected leader, but that shouldn't be the basis for a contract of this value. Add in the fact that the Raiders are playing in arguably the league's most talented division with the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, and Denver Broncos all having realistic playoff expectations, and another season in the cellar seems likely.
No question, whether Cousins is forced into action or the Raiders want the veteran to help ease their rookie quarterback into the lineup, the franchise has set itself up for major disappointment. A feeling that Falcons fans know all too well after spending back-to-back seasons watching the aging quarterback fall apart.