On paper, the combination of quarterback Kirk Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons appeared to be a perfect match. Cousins’ gunslinging playstyle, paired with the Falcons’ talented but underutilized receiving corps, seemed like a formula for success. However, things did not unfold as expected. After recovering from a season-ending Achilles injury, Cousins struggled mightily upon his return. His poor performance led to him being benched during the Falcons’ narrow 15-9 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. Following that, the team handed over the starting quarterback role to rookie Michael Penix Jr., who is now projected to be the franchise quarterback moving forward.
This situation has placed Cousins in a precarious position as the offseason approaches. Two teams appear to be viable options for the veteran quarterback: the Miami Dolphins and the Cleveland Browns. Both franchises have starting quarterbacks with histories of injury—Tua Tagovailoa for the Dolphins and Deshaun Watson for the Browns—making them potential destinations for a backup with starting experience. Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports predicts that Cousins will sign a one-year, $2 million deal with the Browns, filling the No. 2 quarterback slot behind Watson.
Cousins had originally signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons before the 2024 season, but his age, injury history, and declining performance make it unlikely he will remain with Atlanta. The 36-year-old is expected to be released and enter free agency. While his days as a starting quarterback may be behind him, Cousins’ extensive experience and skill set still make him a valuable backup option. Several teams are likely to express interest in signing him as their No. 2 quarterback. Cousins, however, will likely prioritize joining a team where he has a chance to compete for the starting role if an opportunity arises midseason.
How Kirk Cousins Fits into the Browns’ Depth Chart
The Cleveland Browns entered the 2024 season with Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback, Jameis Winston as the backup, and Dorian Thompson-Robinson as their third option. Unfortunately, none of these quarterbacks delivered consistent or exceptional performances, and the Browns endured a turbulent season.
Watson started seven games before suffering a season-ending Achilles injury during a 21-14 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. In those games, Watson threw for 1,148 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions. His performance left Browns fans frustrated, with many calling for him to be benched even before his injury.
Following Watson’s injury, Winston stepped in as the starter for the next seven games. While the offense saw an increase in production under Winston, his well-known tendency to turn the ball over created significant challenges. Over eight games, Winston threw for 2,122 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions before a shoulder injury ended his season prematurely.
The injuries to both Watson and Winston provided third-string quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson with an unexpected opportunity to prove himself. Unfortunately, Thompson-Robinson’s performance further diminished his chances of retaining a spot on the roster for the 2025 season. Over several games, he managed only 440 passing yards with no passing touchdowns and six interceptions, failing to demonstrate he could be a reliable option under center.
The Browns’ lackluster quarterback play contributed to their disappointing 3-14 record in 2024—their worst season since going 0-16 in 2017. It is evident that the team requires a significant upgrade at the quarterback position to improve their fortunes. While the Browns are reportedly committed to Watson as their starter for the 2025 season, Winston is expected to depart, leaving a gap at the backup quarterback spot.
Thompson-Robinson’s struggles also highlighted the need for a more dependable option if Watson is sidelined due to injury, suspension, or poor play. The Browns are now in search of a veteran quarterback who can step in and effectively lead the offense if necessary. Kirk Cousins is expected to be one of the top candidates they consider for this role.
Why Cousins Makes Sense for the Browns
Cousins brings a wealth of experience and has proven himself as a capable quarterback over his career. While his performance with the Falcons in 2024 left much to be desired, the veteran still possesses the skills to provide stability and leadership in a backup role. For the Browns, adding Cousins to their roster would provide insurance at the quarterback position, ensuring they have a reliable option ready to take over if Watson is unavailable or struggles.
Additionally, Cousins’ potential fit with the Browns could appeal to him as well. Given Watson’s injury history and the uncertainty surrounding his performance, Cousins might see an opportunity to compete for playing time in Cleveland. At this stage of his career, Cousins is likely seeking a team where he can step into a starting role if circumstances allow, and the Browns could offer him that chance.
Conclusion
The Browns’ tumultuous 2024 season underscored the need for a stronger and more reliable quarterback depth chart. With Watson remaining the team’s starter and Winston likely on his way out, Cleveland must address the backup quarterback position to prepare for any potential setbacks in 2025. Kirk Cousins, a seasoned veteran with a proven track record, appears to be a logical choice for the role.
While Cousins’ days as a franchise quarterback may be over, his experience, leadership, and ability to step into a starting role when needed make him a valuable asset. Signing Cousins to a one-year, $2 million deal would provide the Browns with a solid backup option and ensure they are better equipped to handle any challenges at the quarterback position in the upcoming season. For Cousins, joining the Browns could offer a second chance to prove himself and perhaps reclaim a starting role under the right circumstances. Both sides could benefit from this potential partnership as they look to bounce back in 2025.
