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(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
If Aaron Rodgers is the biggest quarterbacking name without an NFL team, the second-biggest name could very well be Kirk Cousins, who was released by the Atlanta Falcons earlier this offseason. Cousins has been rumored to be a possible free-agent option for the Pittsburgh Steelers should Rodgers decide that he wants to hang up his cleats. However, the 37-year-old Cousins doesn’t appear to be in any hurry.
While appearing on The Pat McAfee Show at the league meetings in Phoenix on Monday, ESPN senior insider Adam Schefter chatted about Cousins’ future. He revealed that the four-time Pro-Bowler isn’t pushing to sign anywhere just yet.
Kirk Cousins is Unlikely to Go to the Pittsburgh Steelers
GettyAaron Rodgers and Kirk Cousins have faced each other 10 times, including playoffs.
Here is what Schefter had to say specifically about the timeline that Cousins is on:
“Kirk Cousins is just sitting back and waiting. Whatever opportunity comes his way, he can be selective in choosing. He’s made as much money as any NFL player…He can go when he wants. He can go where he wants. He can play. He can not play. He can broadcast. I don’t think he’s rushing to anything until he feels like it’s the right thing.”
“Kirk Cousins is just sitting back and waiting..
He can be selective in choosing where he wants to play and he doesn’t have to rush into anything”
Schefter stated this after revealing his belief that Rodgers is likely going to return to the Steelers. But if Cousins has his eyes on a starting job, he might not have that opportunity. He definitely won’t have the opportunity to start on a Super Bowl-contending team, which is why he could sign almost anywhere as a backup.
Teams like the Green Bay Packers, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, etc., are led by coaches whom Cousins has played for at one point or another in his career. Perhaps he could sign with one of those teams and have a chance to win a ring.
Aaron Rodgers is a Clear Upgrade Over Kirk Cousins
GettyAaron Rodgers holds the NFL record for the highest quarterback rating (102.2).
If Steelers fans had the opportunity to choose between Rodgers and Cousins to be their team’s starting quarterback in 2026, they should feel more inclined to take Rodgers. The California native has accomplished everything there is to accomplish in this sport. He is a champion, an MVP many times over, and a true record-holder. While he is slated to turn 43 years of age in December, his arm talent is still very evident, as well.
Not only is he a complete quarterback, but he has last season’s experience with the Steelers to build off of. He guided the team to its first AFC North title in five seasons after recording 25 total touchdowns and a modest passer rating of 94.8. Furthermore, his previous experience working with new Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy is notable. McCarthy helped him win a Super Bowl ring, as well as two of his first four NFL MVPs.
As experienced and steady as Cousins could be, he has won double-digit games just once in the last six seasons. His 28 touchdowns and 21 interceptions over the past two seasons don’t exactly scream elite either.
Tim Lindsey A Chicago-area native, Tim Lindsey has covered the world of sports through a variety of different lenses. More specifically, he has been an NFL writer for sites such as Sports Illustrated and PFSN. Notable teams like the Green Bay Packers, New York Giants, and Pittsburgh Steelers have been a major point of emphasis for the longtime writer in the past. More about Tim Lindsey
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