What are some pros and cons of the Washington Commanders potentially going after veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins in free agency?
Most believe the Washington Commanders will take a quarterback at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. However, general manager Adam Peters is keen to keep all options on the table as he embarks on a substantial rebuilding process this offseason.
There is growing speculation linking the Commanders with Kirk Cousins. The veteran is set to hit free agency after a tremendous spell with the Minnesota Vikings. He's also no stranger to the DC area having been drafted by the organization.
Washington handled Cousins' contract poorly before his eventual departure after two straight franchise tags. With previous owner Dan Snyder no longer around, the former Michigan State college standout is rumored to be interested in a return to familiar surroundings.
Looking at all angles, here are three pros and cons of the Commanders signing Cousins in free agency.
Con No. 1
Kirk Cousins' injury problem
While Kirk Cousins' production remains among the league's most consistent, one cannot overlook his recent injury misfortune. A torn Achilles after eight games ended his campaign well ahead of time. While this isn't the crippling career complication it once was, there's just no telling what lingering effects it will have on the signal-caller at this late stage of his NFL journey.
Cousins is reportedly recovering well from the problem and could return in time for the 2024 regular-season opener. His style of play doesn't rely much on explosiveness, so there's a good chance of returning to form when medically cleared to resume football activities.
The Commanders should approach this cautiously if they decide to inquire about Cousins. But it could be a definitive con if there's an inkling of doubt when push comes to shove.
Pro No. 1
Kirk Cousins would provide legitimacy
Signing Kirk Cousins won't be cheap even coming off such a significant injury. The veteran quarterback has made more than $200 million throughout his career through fully guaranteed contracts. It's likely his representatives would be looking for the same again from the Minnesota Vikings or another team that comes calling in free agency.
With $96 million available to spend in free agency according to Spotrac, the Washington Commanders have the financial means to make Cousins an enticing offer and still build other areas of their roster. More than a few teams will also covet the signal-caller, which could instigate a bidding war for his services when it's all said and done.
Adding Cousins to this new, ambitious project would immediately legitimize the proposals being outlined by head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters. The Commanders have been viewed as a laughingstock by many around the league, leaving those with alternative options to go elsewhere. If they target the signal-caller and convince him to sign, it completely shifts the landscape.
This is dependent on where the Commanders see themselves in the short term. If they decide re-joining the contenders is going to take time, this doesn't look feasible. If they believe acquiring Cousins and others can speed up their rebuild, the prospect becomes more realistic.
The emotional ties from Cousins' perspective are obvious. It's been a constant stream of failed starters since his departure, but whether those in power are willing to make such a lofty dent in their available cash is another matter.
Con No. 2
Commanders need a long-term solution
Adam Peters has made no secret of his desire to build through the draft and supplement through free agency. This is the more traditional method to roster construction - one the new general manager helped implement so successfully with the San Francisco 49ers in recent years.
While Peters hasn't ruled anything out, the Washington Commanders won't get a better chance to secure a potential franchise quarterback long-term via the 2024 NFL Draft. They have the No. 2 overall selection. Even if Caleb Williams goes first to the Chicago Bears as expected, it still leaves the franchise with a tempting choice between Drake Maye or Jayden Daniels.
This would also give Peters a rookie contract to build around in the coming years. It allows for veteran players to be kept around, the potential for big-name additions in free agency with proven production, and perhaps even a bold trade if the situation dictates.
Kirk Cousins is projected to command an annual salary of $39.38 million on a three-year, $118.15 million deal. This would leave a substantial dent in Washington's cap and increase the level of urgency to win now. Something that blighted previous regimes when Dan Snyder held absolute power.
Peters doesn't plan on picking No. 2 again. He wants the Commanders to start making strides forward and grow gradually on and off the field. Adding a veteran quarterback like Cousins doesn't fit into this ethos.