This week the Las Vegas Raiders added a new quarterback to the roster in Kirk Cousins. Cousins has familiarity with head coach Klint Kubiak working with him in 2021 with the Minnesota Vikings. He will be the bridge to eventual number one pick Fernando Mendoza this season.
There has been controversy with his contract after it was announced as a 5-year $172 million dollar deal. The controversy comes from the loophole that allows the Raiders to pay Cousins $20 million. However, they only need to pay $11.3 million this season, while the Atlanta Falcons remain responsible for the difference.
It has led writers such as Albert Breer and Mike Florio to suggest that it might prompt a rule change by the league.
“Pay him the minimum now, and promise more later. Legitimate or not under current rules, it seems as if the Raiders have pulled a fast one.” Florio said.
While the Raiders have been critized for giving out bad deals it seems now even when the franchise does well media gets skeptical. It was a great deal worked out by Spytek finding a loophole that could help secure their spot-starter for 2026. Hopefully Spytek keeps wheeling and dealing as the Silver and Black GM.