As the NFL gears up for another frenetic free agency period, all eyes are turning towards Kirk Cousins, the veteran quarterback whose market value is a subject of considerable debate. Cousins, known for landing historically lucrative deals, is entering the fray once again, but this time with a cloud of uncertainty looming over him due to a recent injury setback.
A Look Back at Cousins' Record-Setting Contracts
Kirk Cousins has been no stranger to the high stakes of NFL free agency. In 2018, he set the market ablaze by signing a three-year, $84 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings, a deal remarkable not just for its size but because it was fully guaranteed, a rarity in the NFL. This contract redefined quarterback valuations and set a precedent for future negotiations.
The Stage is Set for 2024
Now 35, Cousins is negotiating what could be one of the final significant contracts of his career. Despite his age, his track record speaks volumes. Cousins had his best season in 2021, throwing for 4,221 yards, 33 touchdowns, and only 7 interceptions, a performance that placed him among the elite quarterbacks of the league.
However, a torn Achilles in late October 2022 has introduced a layer of complexity to his current free agency status. This injury has led to speculation about Cousins' ability to perform at his previous levels and has potential suitors weighing their options carefully.
Cousins' Ranking and Suitors
Statistically, Cousins remains highly competitive. With a completion percentage and passing yards per attempt that rank him among the top 10 quarterbacks, his appeal is undeniable. Teams like the Denver Broncos, Indianapolis Colts, and Washington Commanders have emerged as top contenders for his services.
The Impact of Injury on Contracts
The injury, however, has skewed expectations regarding Cousins' possible contract. While previously he might have commanded a much higher price, the current climate suggests he may have to settle for a contract with an annual value in the vicinity of $20 million, likely accompanied by shorter term commitments from teams hesitant to gamble on his post-injury performance.
The Other Big Name: Mike Evans
While Cousins' situation captures significant attention, another noteworthy development in the NFL is Mike Evans' recent contract extension with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The wide receiver inked a two-year, $52 million extension, a reward for his outstanding contribution to the team, especially highlighted by co-leading the NFL with 13 receiving touchdowns in 2023.
Evans is on the verge of making history. With another 1,000-yard season in 2024, he could tie Jerry Rice's record for most consecutive seasons with 1,000+ receiving yards, a testament to his consistency and skill as one of the NFL's premier receivers.
The Future for Cousins
As the offseason progresses, the narrative around Kirk Cousins will undoubtedly evolve. His next contract will serve as a critical barometer of his perceived value in the aftermath of his injury. Teams in need of a quarterback will have to balance the risk and reward of investing in Cousins, considering both his past achievements and the potential limitations his recent Achilles injury might impose.
For Cousins, the coming months represent not just a financial negotiation but a chance to prove he remains among the NFL's quarterback elite. Meanwhile, for the teams vying for his signature, it's a gamble that could either pay off with a seasoned leader under center or leave them counting the cost of betting on a comeback.
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, all stakeholders will be keenly watching how Cousins' saga unfolds, with his eventual landing spot and contract terms poised to be among the most closely scrutinized moves of this free agency period.