Packers GM leaves the door open to acquire veteran quarterback with strong ties to Matt LaFleur in intriguing scenario

Kirk Cousins is still available in free agency.

Wendell Ferreira — NFL News Writer
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Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) on the field before the game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
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The Green Bay Packers have Desmond Ridder and Kyle McCord at quarterback behind Jordan Love. But after losing Malik Willis in free agency to the Miami Dolphins, it’s not out of the equation for the front office to sign a more experienced and proven backup.

At the Annual League Meeting in Phoenix, general manager Brian Gutekunst confirmed that the team has discussed the possibility of signing Kirk Cousins, who was recently released by the Atlanta Falcons.

“Yeah, we’ve discussed a lot of those options,” Gutekunst said. “Obviously, that’s a guy who’s got a lot of pelts on the wall in this league, so we’ve certainly discussed all those kinds of things.”

Particular circumstances

Even though Kirk Cousins is 37 years old and has a limited ceiling compared to a player like Willis, there are multiple enticing reasons to consider him. First, he’s a four-time Pro Bowler who’s proved to be competent throughout his career.

Second, he will now be three years removed from his Achilles injury, so there’s a positive expectation about his physical situation. Last year, he started eight games for the Falcons and, while unspectacular, he played reasonably well — more than fine for what would be a backup in Green Bay.

Another impactful reason is his connection to head coach Matt LaFleur, who was Cousins’ first quarterbacks coach in Washington in 2012 and 2013. His familiarity with LaFleur and the offensive scheme would be helpful.

There’s also a financial component. Because Cousins had $10 million in guarantees from the Falcons with offsets, the most likely scenario is that he will sign a veteran minimum contract with his next team.

The Packers may or may not sign a more experienced backup to compete with the players the roster has at the moment. But if they do it, Kirk Cousins will inevitably be close to the top of the candidates list.

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