Kirk Cousins Rumors: Vikings QB Expected to Test NFL FA Amid Falcons, Broncos Buzz

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins is expected to test out NFL free agency amid potential interest from the Atlanta Falcons and Denver Broncos, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

"The Vikings and Kirk Cousins' agent remain in communication, but at this point, it does appear that the four-time Pro Bowl quarterback is going to hit the free agent market on Monday," Pelissero said. "Other teams I would expect to pursue Cousins do include the Atlanta Falcons and quite possibly the Denver Broncos as well."

Although Pelissero floated Denver as a potential landing spot, The Athletic's Dianna Russini reported the Broncos—who are set to release Russell Wilson after the start of the new league year on March 13—will not pursue Cousins.

According to Pelissero, Cousins could return to Minnesota next season, but it would take the right deal from the Vikings. Pelissero said that he "anticipates" the deal would likely need to be around $40 million with guaranteed money.

The Vikings are reportedly having internal conversations regarding their offer to Cousins, per The Athletic's Dianna Russini, but they haven't been informed of Cousins' decision. Russini reported that there's a feeling around the team that Cousins wants to stay in Minnesota, but it will come down to the structure of the deal.

Cousins, who has been with the Vikings since 2018, had 2,331 passing yards, 18 touchdowns and five interceptions before his season ended early due to a torn Achilles. He earned $35 million last season as part of an extension he signed in 2022.

The veteran quarterback has played on a fully guaranteed deal for the last nine years, which leads Pelissero to believe the Vikings would need to offer him fully guaranteed money to bring him back.

While Desmond Ridder will still be under contract next season, the Falcons are looking for a new talent after he struggled last year. In 2023, Ridder threw for 2,836 yards, 12 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Atlanta is looking for a turnaround year after missing the playoffs for six straight seasons, and landing Cousins could help with that.

Denver will part ways with quarterback Russell Wilson at the start of free agency on Wednesday and will be looking for a strong candidate to fill his shoes.