Could Kirk Cousins end up with this surprising team?

With the Atlanta Falcons signing Tua Tagovailoa to compete with Michael Penix Jr. for the QB1 spot, it's likely the end of the Kirk Cousins era in Georgia.

In fact, looking at the current picture, it might be the end of his days as a starter. 

That's why ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell believes Cousins will make his next career move based on fit, knowing that he'll likely be a backup.

With that in mind, he named the Green Bay Packers as an intriguing fit, not only because of their need to replace Malik Willis but also because of their play-action-heavy offense.

The Packers are an intriguing fit for Kirk Cousins

"The Packers need a backup quarterback after losing Malik Willis to the Dolphins in free agency. They run play-action at one of the highest rates in the league under Matt LaFleur. Jordan Love has missed two games to injury in each of the past two years, so the Packers have to be conscious of their need to have a backup they trust if Love can't go," Barnwell wrote.

The Packers developed Willis after his failed two-year stint with the Tennessee Titans, and they could choose to take a similar route this time. Nevertheless, Cousins gives them a proven veteran at a position of need, especially with Love missing time last season: 

"While LaFleur might try to find value with another prospect in the same way the Packers once did when they traded for Willis, Cousins would be a solid option as the backup behind Love in 2026," he added.

While clearly not at the peak of his powers, Cousins can still play. Per Football Reference, he completed 61.7 percent of his passes for 1,721 yards, 10 touchdowns and five picks in 10 appearances (eight starts) last season. 

The QB market isn't as big this season, and with not many options to be a starter, Cousins might opt to embrace a new chapter of his career back in the NFC North.