The Los Angeles Rams are making big moves during the 2026 league meetings. Head coach Sean McVay recently sat down with ProFootballTalk to discuss his plans for the upcoming season. He made it clear that the team needs a reliable veteran behind star starter Matthew Stafford. While Jimmy Garoppolo is a top choice for a return, McVay specifically highlightedKirk Cousins as a major target for the backup role.
McVay and Cousins have a long history together from their days in Washington. The coach credits the quarterback for helping his career trajectory. During the interview, McVay spoke highly of their bond.
Hestated, “Kirk is as influential as anybody in helping me get to L.A. in the first place.” This personal connection makes the potential signing more than just a standard football move.
Sean McVay says Rams are interested in Kirk Cousins as the backup to Matthew Stafford. pic.twitter.com/zqDWasZDSp
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 30, 2026
The Rams are looking for stability because Stafford is getting older. They want a player who can step in and win games immediately if the starter gets hurt. Cousins is currently a free agent after his time with the Falcons.
He has many years of experience as a starter in the league. Moving to a backup role would be a big change for him. However, the chance to work with McVay again might be too good to pass up.
Sean McVay and Kirk Cousins have history of collaboration
The relationship between these two men goes back over a decade. When McVay was an assistant coach, Kirk Cousins was a young player trying to prove himself. They grew together and found great success on the field.
Now that both are established veterans, a reunion in California makes a lot of sense for a championship contender. McVay acknowledged the reality of the situation during his talk.
Dec 29, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) warms up before a game against the Los Angeles Rams at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Dec 29, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) warms up before a game against the Los Angeles Rams at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
He said, “Obviously people make some of the connections with Kirk. And if it does not work out with Jimmy. You know that is definitely something that I have tremendous respect.”
The Rams are not the only team interested in a player of this caliber. Other suitors are likely offering Cousins a chance to compete for a starting job elsewhere.
But the Rams offer a world-class system and a familiar face at head coach. If the money is right, Cousins could provide the ultimate insurance policy for the offense. This move would give the fans peace of mind.
Having two elite passers on the roster is a luxury most teams cannot afford. The next few weeks of free agency will determine if this dream pairing actually happens.