The 2026 NFL Draft is approaching, and the second week of March brought a wave of roster movement as teams released players and signed new contracts.
The Green Bay Packers lost their primary backup quarterback in free agency, as Malik Willis departed for a lucrative deal to become the starting quarterback for the Miami Dolphins.
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Now, head coach Matt LaFleur must find a new primary backup. While the team has been linked to a young project like Anthony Richardson, a specific veteran quarterback could appeal to LaFleur.
Dec 27, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers head coach Matt Lafleur yells at quarterback Malik Willis after a fumble during the second quarter of their game against the Baltimore Ravens at Lambeau. Mandatory Credit: Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via Imagn Images
A familiar face and reunion?
Reports indicate that the Packers have begun doing their homework on the veteran quarterback market. The biggest name to watch is former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Cousins previously played under LaFleur in Washington and has now reportedly drawn the Packers head coach’s attention. A reunion could benefit both sides.
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Although Cousins has also been linked to a potential reunion with the San Francisco 49ers—where he would rejoin Kyle Shanahan—the 49ers remain adamant about keeping Mac Jones unless they receive an overwhelming trade offer.
Aug 23, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers Head Coach Matt LaFleur runs off the field following a 20-7 win against the Seattle Seahawks at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Kayla Wolf-Imagn Images
That stance limits Cousins’ options. A familiar connection in Green Bay may represent his best—or only—opportunity.
LaFleur has a strong track record of developing quarterbacks in backup roles. He helped groom Jordan Love to succeed Aaron Rodgers and played a role in elevating Willis’ value.
A one-year stint in Green Bay could help Cousins regain his footing and reestablish his market value. From there, he could enter free agency in 2027 following a successful run under LaFleur. This could lead to a future compensatory pick.
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