Rams Eye Kirk Cousins as Backup for Matthew Stafford Amid QB Search
The Los Angeles Rams are exploring options for a backup quarterback, currently relying on reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford and rookie Stetson Bennett. Last season, the Rams had Jimmy Garoppolo as their backup, but he is now a free agent weighing his choices. Sean McVay, the Rams' coach, mentioned this week their interest in potentially re-signing Garoppolo, while also eyeing Kirk Cousins as another option. McVay remarked, "Kirk is as influential as anybody in helping me get to L.A. in the first place," highlighting their past collaboration. Cousins and McVay spent five seasons together at Washington from 2012 to 2016. During this period, Cousins achieved a career-high of 4,917 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in McVay's final season there, which played a pivotal role in McVay landing the Rams head coaching position at just 30 years old. At 38, Cousins was released after two years into a four-year, $180 million deal with the Atlanta Falcons. In 2024, he faced a rocky start, being benched for rookie Michael Penix Jr., but later stepped in to lead the team to a 5-2 finish, including a four-game win streak to end the regular season. He finished his time in Atlanta with 5,229 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 21 interceptions. The landscape for Cousins' next team remains uncertain, especially with few franchises actively seeking a starting quarterback. The Las Vegas Raiders may draft Fernando Mendoza, while the Pittsburgh Steelers await a decision from Aaron Rodgers. The Arizona Cardinals could also be a possibility, given their current QB situation. While Cousins might wait for an injury to a starting quarterback, McVay's interest indicates the Rams are keen on adding the veteran to their roster.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-03-30