There’s ongoing speculation regarding Kirk Cousins’ future. The 36-year-old quarterback signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons this offseason. However, after the Falcons drafted Michael Penix Jr. in the first round, Cousins was benched for him in Week 16, sparking discussions about potential trades or cuts. Despite this uncertainty, it’s likely that some team will see value in giving him another chance in the fall. Interestingly, Cousins is currently making a media appearance as a guest analyst on ESPN’s Postseason NFL Countdown, preparing for the broadcast of the Houston Texans-Kansas City Chiefs divisional playoff game.
Excited to join the NFL Countdown crew today @ESPNNFL https://t.co/yUymeOpB9c
— Kirk Cousins (@KirkCousins8) January 18, 2025
Currently, it seems unlikely that this appearance indicates an immediate shift toward a broadcasting career for Cousins. While his time with the Falcons looks uncertain and his performance this season has been subpar—boasting 3,508 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, 16 interceptions, and a 66.7 percent completion rate, including two games with under 200 yards in his last four starts—he still has a solid track record from his time with the Minnesota Vikings. This includes 42,979 career passing yards, 288 touchdowns, and four Pro Bowl selections, showcasing a resume that many current analysts would envy, despite his career not being over yet. There are several teams that could potentially use his experience for the coming seasons if he can return to form.
Cousins’ guest analyst stint notably highlights how networks value players and may suggest that he is interested in exploring media roles. Such appearances can provide valuable experience for these players, as seen with Greg Olsen, who transitioned successfully into a broadcasting role after calling a few games and serving as a guest analyst while still active in the NFL. Networks often favor hiring quarterbacks for analyst roles, and given Cousins’ outreach to media—evidenced by his participation in Netflix’s Quarterback series—it’s apparent that he is open to such opportunities. Despite some unusual personal views that have garnered media attention, he continues to land media spots.
In conclusion, Cousins’ appearance on Postseason NFL Countdown will be one to watch. While it may not signify an immediate career shift toward broadcasting, it does indicate that he has piqued the interest of networks like ESPN and expresses a willingness to engage in media work. This may open up potential opportunities for him after his career in football.
