The Green Bay Packers are facing a critical need at backup quarterback after losing Malik Willis to the Miami Dolphins in NFL free agency this spring. Willis, one of the most high-profile backups in recent memory, agreed to join his former Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley in Miami, leaving Jordan Love without a proven understudy heading into the 2026 season.
ESPN NFL analyst Bill Barnwell highlighted the urgency in a Friday column, proposing that the Packers pursue veteran signal-caller Kirk Cousins as a reliable backup.
“They run play-action at one of the highest rates in the league under Matt LaFleur,” Barnwell wrote. “Jordan Love has missed two games to injury in each of the past two years, so the Packers have to be conscious of their need to have a backup they trust if Love can’t go.”
Oct 19, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) passes against the Arizona Cardinals during the second half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Oct 19, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) passes against the Arizona Cardinals during the second half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Green Bay Packers Linked to Kirk Cousins as Backup QB Option After Malik Willis Departure
Barnwell noted that while LaFleur might look for value in another developmental prospect—similar to how Green Bay acquired Willis—Cousins would provide immediate stability and experience behind Love in 2026.
The 37-year-old Cousins was released by the Atlanta Falcons this offseason after signing a four-year, $180 million contract two years ago. In 2025, Cousins made eight starts for Atlanta as a backup-turned-starter, leading the team to a 5-3 record in those games while completing 61.7% of his passes for 10 touchdowns, five interceptions, and averaging 6.4 yards per attempt.
Kirk Cousins to Green Bay Packers? A Logical Fit for Backup Role
Cousins, who spent six seasons each with the Washington Commanders (then Redskins) and Minnesota Vikings before joining Atlanta, brings a wealth of experience and familiarity with play-action-heavy offenses that align well with Matt LaFleur’s scheme. His time in Minnesota under Kevin Stefanski (now with the Browns) and with the Vikings’ play-calling staff would translate smoothly to Green Bay’s system.
However, starting opportunities are dwindling around the NFL. Teams like the Miami Dolphins (who signed Willis), Indianapolis Colts, New York Jets, Minnesota Vikings, and Atlanta Falcons have already secured veteran or developmental quarterbacks in the first week of free agency. This scarcity could make a backup role more appealing to Cousins, even if he prefers a starting job.
The Packers’ situation is clear: Love has shown flashes of stardom but has dealt with injuries, missing two games in each of the last two seasons. A trusted veteran like Cousins would provide insurance and mentorship, especially in a high-tempo, play-action offense that demands quick decisions and accuracy.
Green Bay Packers Fans React to Kirk Cousins Backup QB Proposal
Packers Nation has mixed but largely pragmatic reactions to the idea of bringing in Kirk Cousins as a backup. On social media, fans acknowledged the need for depth while debating the fit and cost.
Many see it as a smart, low-risk move: “Cousins as Love’s backup? Experience, play-action fit, and he knows the NFC North inside out. Sign him yesterday.” Others expressed caution: “Love is the future—don’t want Cousins’ contract lingering if he wants more snaps. But yeah, Willis leaving hurts.”
Some fans pointed to the irony: “From Vikings to Packers? That would be wild. But if he’s willing to back up Love, it’s a win for us.” Optimism prevails among those focused on protection for Love: “Two injuries in two years? We can’t risk another season without a solid QB2. Cousins gets it done.”
Outlook for Green Bay Packers QB Room in 2026
With Malik Willis gone and Jordan Love as the undisputed starter, the Green Bay Packers must address backup depth before training camp. Kirk Cousins represents a veteran option with proven production, familiarity with similar schemes, and the ability to step in without a steep learning curve.
Whether the Packers pursue Cousins or opt for a younger developmental arm remains to be seen, but Barnwell’s proposal has sparked legitimate discussion in Green Bay. As free agency continues, the team’s next move at quarterback will be closely watched.
For more Green Bay Packers news, Kirk Cousins updates, NFL free agency rumors, and quarterback analysis, stay tuned. Do you think the Packers should sign Kirk Cousins as Jordan Love’s backup? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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