Packers Linked to Veteran QB Kirk Cousins After Malik Willis Departure

The Green Bay Packers may soon explore the veteran quarterback market after losing backup Malik Willis in free agency. One potential solution gaining attention is four-time Pro Bowler Kirk Cousins, who was recently released by the Atlanta Falcons.

With the Packers preparing for the 2026–27 NFL season, the team now faces an important decision about who will serve as the primary backup behind starting quarterback Jordan Love.

Malik Willis Signs With the Dolphins

Green Bay’s need at the position emerged after Willis signed a three-year, $67.5 million contract with the Miami Dolphins last week.

The 26-year-old quarterback, originally a third-round pick, showed flashes of potential during the 2025–26 season while serving as Love’s backup. His performance was strong enough to earn him a more prominent opportunity in Miami.

While the Packers were expected to move on from Willis, his departure leaves a significant gap on the roster—especially for a team that wants stability behind its starting quarterback.

Why the Packers Need a Reliable Backup

Under head coach Matt LaFleur, the Packers operate an offensive system heavily reliant on play-action passing, a scheme that requires quarterbacks who can manage the offense efficiently and make quick decisions.

According to ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell, this system makes Green Bay an ideal destination for Cousins.

Love has missed two games in each of the last two seasons due to injury, which has highlighted the importance of having a dependable No. 2 quarterback ready to step in if needed.

Barnwell noted that while LaFleur could attempt to develop another young quarterback—as the Packers did when they traded for Willis—the team might instead prefer a proven veteran presence behind Love.

Kirk Cousins Brings Experience and Stability

At 37 years old, Cousins is no longer considered a long-term starting option for most teams, but his experience could make him one of the most reliable backup quarterbacks available.

The veteran passer has appeared in 174 NFL games, building a reputation as one of the league’s most consistent and durable quarterbacks over the past decade.

Cousins is also only a few seasons removed from one of the best statistical campaigns of his career. During the 2021 season with the Minnesota Vikings, he recorded:

• 4,221 passing yards

• 33 touchdowns

• 7 interceptions

That level of production demonstrates that he still possesses the ability to manage an offense effectively if called upon.

A Low-Risk Option for Green Bay

For Green Bay, signing Cousins would represent a low-risk, high-experience move.

Instead of relying on an unproven backup quarterback, the Packers would gain a veteran who understands NFL offenses and can keep the team competitive if Love misses time.

Such a move could be particularly valuable for a Packers team that hopes to remain a serious contender in the NFC.

The Packers’ Quarterback Outlook

The franchise remains fully committed to Jordan Love as its starting quarterback. Love has shown significant development over the past two seasons and is expected to lead Green Bay’s offense for the foreseeable future.

However, teams with championship aspirations often prioritize depth at the quarterback position. Bringing in Cousins would give the Packers an experienced safety net behind their young starter.

What Happens Next?

Green Bay’s front office will likely evaluate several backup quarterback options before the start of training camp. Still, Cousins stands out as one of the most intriguing candidates due to his experience and familiarity with NFL systems.

If the Packers decide to pursue the veteran quarterback, the move could provide valuable insurance for the 2026 season while maintaining stability at one of the most important positions in football.

For now, the question remains whether Green Bay will choose to invest in experience with Cousins or develop another young quarterback behind Jordan Love. 🏈