Kirk Cousins. (Photo via Imagn Images)

Kirk Cousins Joins Surprise Team in Move No One Saw Coming

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Orlando Silva | Last updated Apr 2, 2026 12:19 PM ET

After the Atlanta Falcons released him at the start of the league year, Kirk Cousins found a new home. The veteran signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the NFC South team, only to be benched after 14 games in 2024.

While he returned to the field after Michael Penix Jr. suffered a season-ending injury last season, Cousins couldn’t reclaim his starting spot for the 2026 campaign.

The Falcons parted ways with him, and several teams, including the Minnesota Vikings, reportedly showed interest in the veteran.

Las Vegas Raiders Sign Kirk Cousins

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) looks to pass in the fourth quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Mike McCartney (via Adam Schefter on X) reported that Kirk Cousins signed with the Las Vegas Raiders ahead of the 2026 season.

Kirk Cousins is signing with the Raiders, per @MikeMcCartney7.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 2, 2026

Schefter adds that Cousins and Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak worked together in Minnesota for three seasons. They reunite in Las Vegas now.

Raiders HC Klint Kubiak coached Kirk Cousins for three seasons in Minnesota. Now they reunite in Las Vegas. https://t.co/YaewoXmQUH pic.twitter.com/m2q2sGH1Rl
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 2, 2026

From Atlanta to Las Vegas: pic.twitter.com/4VbDzR1LB1
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 2, 2026

Kubiak told this week that he thought rookie quarterbacks shouldn’t be Week 1 starters, referring to Fernando Mendoza. Now, the Raiders have a veteran to bridge the projected No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL draft.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: