The Cleveland Browns’ ongoing quarterback dilemma is well-documented, and as the 2024 season progresses, it’s evident that finding a solution is crucial. While the team has faced significant struggles in this area, there is now a potential option that could help fill the gap, at least temporarily, until a long-term answer is discovered. This option is Kirk Cousins, the experienced veteran quarterback currently with the Atlanta Falcons.
Cousins’ situation is somewhat precarious, as the Falcons have opted to bench him in favor of Michael Penix Jr. in a desperate attempt to make the playoffs. With the expectation that Cousins’ time in Atlanta is nearing its end, the Cleveland Browns could seize the opportunity to bring him aboard as a stopgap quarterback. This would give them time to search for a more permanent solution, all while benefiting from Cousins’ experience.
One of the primary reasons the Browns should seriously consider signing Cousins is the financial feasibility. If the Falcons were to release Cousins after June 1st, they would be left with a hefty $65 million in dead cap space. This makes it unlikely that Cousins would command a large contract as a free agent. Instead, he would likely be willing to sign a deal for the veteran’s minimum, especially if he finds a team where he believes he has the best chance to succeed and potentially win.
This scenario is not entirely new in the NFL. The Pittsburgh Steelers, for example, benefited from a similar situation when Russell Wilson struggled with the Denver Broncos and was later acquired by Pittsburgh at a much more affordable price. Wilson, once highly paid, found a new home and was able to thrive again in a different environment. The Browns could replicate this blueprint with Cousins, which would allow them to have a proven quarterback without straining their salary cap, something that’s critical for the team given their current payroll structure.
Furthermore, there is a strong connection between Cousins and the Browns’ coaching staff, making Cleveland an appealing landing spot. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has a history with Cousins from their time together with the Minnesota Vikings. Stefanski served as a coach on the Vikings’ staff from 2006 to 2019, with his final two seasons coinciding with Cousins’ tenure in Minnesota. During those two years, Cousins played some of his best football, completing 69.7% of his passes and throwing for 7,901 yards, 56 touchdowns, and only 16 interceptions. Their prior success together suggests that a reunion in Cleveland could lead to a productive partnership once again.
Given the Browns’ struggles in the current offensive system under offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey, it may be time for the team to reassess its approach. The coaching staff initially deviated from their comfort zone in an attempt to cater to the strengths of Deshaun Watson, but the results have been less than stellar. In fact, the Browns’ offense has been far from consistent and often inefficient. Reverting to the offensive system that previously proved effective for quarterbacks with some limitations, like Cousins, might be the solution. This system has historically allowed quarterbacks to thrive despite having perceived weaknesses, making it an ideal fit for Cousins’ style of play.
If the Browns can reunite Stefanski with Cousins, it could restore offensive stability, which is exactly what the team needs to become more competitive. Instead of continuing to experiment with offensive schemes that don’t fit their current personnel, Cleveland could return to what works. This would not only provide Cousins with a chance to prove he is still a capable NFL quarterback but also help the Browns avoid a complete roster overhaul, a scenario that would require significant time and resources.
Bringing in Cousins would make sense for both sides. For Cousins, the opportunity to prove he still has the ability to start at a high level in the NFL is a strong motivator, and Cleveland presents a competitive environment to do so. For the Browns, acquiring a seasoned quarterback could provide immediate stability and keep the team in playoff contention as they look toward the future.
Thus, it seems like an ideal move for the Browns. They need a reliable quarterback who can manage the offense, maintain competitiveness, and buy the team more time to plan for their long-term future at the position. Similarly, Cousins needs a new opportunity to prove himself, and Cleveland could offer that opportunity without the pressures of being part of a full-scale rebuild.
In conclusion, the potential pairing of Kirk Cousins with the Cleveland Browns should be viewed as a pragmatic and sensible solution for both sides. Cousins’ proven track record, financial feasibility, and historical success with Stefanski make him an attractive option for the Browns. If both parties are willing to pursue this path, it could serve as a much-needed stopgap while Cleveland prepares to secure their long-term quarterback. This alignment could help the Browns remain competitive in the short term, while Cousins gets another chance to showcase his abilities on a bigger stage.
