'Rejuvenated' Kirk Cousins wants to return for 15th season in 2026: 'Here we are again'

Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins has expressed his desire to continue playing in the 2026 NFL season, marking his 15th year in the league. Currently with the Atlanta Falcons, Cousins stepped in last season after starter Michael Penix Jr. suffered a torn ACL. Cousins led the team to a 5-2 record in his seven starts, although the Falcons missed the playoffs.

Cousins, 37, returned to Atlanta in 2025 as a backup due to his high salary and cap hit, making him the most expensive QB2 in NFL history. He recently agreed to a modified contract that provides the Falcons with salary-cap flexibility and positions him as a likely free agent by March 13.

The Falcons, under new leadership including President Matt Ryan and Head Coach Kevin Stefanski, have not committed to Penix as the starting quarterback once he recovers. This uncertainty at the QB position could affect Cousins' future with the team. Cousins has a history of navigating uncertain