Former Falcons QB Kirk Cousins heading to Las Vegas
Kirk Cousins #18 of the Atlanta Falcons warms up prior to an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 7, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images)
ATLANTA - Former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is headed to Las Vegas, signing with the Raiders as the team looks to add experience ahead of the 2026 season, according to NFL.com.
What we know:
Cousins’ agent announced the move Thursday, bringing the 14-year NFL veteran to a team in transition. The Raiders hold the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming draft and are widely expected to select Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, but team leadership has made clear they want a proven option under center to begin the season.
What they're saying:
Head coach Klint Kubiak recently emphasized the importance of having a veteran starter in place, a role Cousins is expected to fill. The two are familiar with each other, having previously worked together with the Minnesota Vikings from 2019 to 2021.
Cousins provides stability and experience as Las Vegas prepares for a new era, and he could see time as the starter early in the season while mentoring the team’s future quarterback. The move also comes after interest from other teams, including reported attention from the Los Angeles Rams and Green Bay Packers for backup roles.
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Last season, Cousins stepped in as a starter for Atlanta Falcons and posted 1,721 passing yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions, finishing with a 5-3 record. He now joins the fourth team of his career, with an opportunity to contribute on the field while helping guide the next generation at the position.
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