The Las Vegas Raiders have officially signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to enhance their quarterback lineup, a move that comes ahead of the anticipated 2026 NFL Draft. Cousins, who is 37 years old, brings significant experience, having previously served as a Pro Bowl selection.
### Contract Details are Pending
The agreement was confirmed on Thursday through Cousins’ agent; however, the specific terms of the contract have not yet been disclosed. Cousins is stepping into the Raiders’ organization after two seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, during which he signed a lucrative four-year deal potentially valued at $180 million. This substantial contract was cut short when the Falcons released him following challenges during his tenure.
In the 2025 season, Cousins started eight games and achieved a 5-3 record, including four consecutive wins to finish the season after being reinstated from the bench. Over that span, he completed 61.7% of his passes, amassing 1,721 yards while throwing ten touchdowns and five interceptions. Cousins ranks 19th in NFL history for regular-season passing yards, totaling 44,700 yards, and 15th for passing touchdowns at 298.
### Familiarity with Coaching Staff
One notable aspect of Cousins’ signing is his prior working relationship with Klint Kubiak, the new head coach of the Raiders. During Cousins’ time with the Minnesota Vikings, Kubiak served as his quarterbacks coach and later as the offensive coordinator. This connection may facilitate Cousins’ transition to the Raiders and help set the team’s strategic direction.
The signing follows the Raiders’ recent decision to trade Geno Smith to the New York Jets after a disappointing season. Many analysts predict that the team will utilize their number one overall pick in the upcoming draft to select standout quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner. However, the organization’s leadership, including minority owner Tom Brady and general manager John Spytek, has hinted at a preference for not thrusting a young quarterback into the starting position immediately.
This approach suggests that if Cousins joins the squad, he may serve as a bridge starter while Mendoza develops and adapts to the NFL’s demands behind the scenes. The Raiders’ management believes that a gradual integration of a young talent could yield better long-term results.
The Raiders have not fully committed on when or if Mendoza will start, leaving open the possibility that Cousins could enjoy a leading role in the offense when the season commences. As the organization prepares for the draft, much speculation will likely arise around the team’s quarterback strategy as they balance immediate competitiveness with future development.
With the Raiders’ recent developments, the eyes of the NFL community will be turned toward Las Vegas as the 2026 season approaches, with many eager to see how Cousins leads a team focused on regaining traction in the league.
Source reference: Full report
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