Predicting the Landing Spots for Kirk Cousins, Baker Mayfield, and Other QBs in the 2024 NFL Offseason

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05/03/2024 23h42

As the 2024 NFL free agency approaches, speculation is mounting on where some of the league's top quarterbacks will find themselves next season. Let's take a look at the predicted landing spots for Kirk Cousins, Baker Mayfield, and other notable names in the upcoming QB carousel.

The Atlanta Falcons, under new head coach Raheem Morris, have made it clear that they need an upgrade at the quarterback position. Morris blamed lousy quarterback play as the reason for the staff changes after the 2023 season. As a result, it is expected that the Falcons will target veteran Kirk Cousins. Despite Cousins' age of 35 and recent Achilles injury, he is seen as a bridge option that could provide stability to the Falcons' offense. With their interest in trading for Justin Fields seemingly low, Cousins appears to be the best fit for Atlanta.

Baker Mayfield, who had a strong 2023 season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is looking to continue his success in Tampa Bay. Speculations suggest that both Mayfield and the Buccaneers are interested in reaching a long-term extension, indicating a desire for a continued partnership. Therefore, it is anticipated that Mayfield will remain with the Buccaneers in 2024.

After parting ways with Russell Wilson, the Denver Broncos are in need of a new quarterback. Analysts predict that the team will sign Wilson to a one to two-year deal, making him a bridge quarterback while they search for a long-term solution. The Las Vegas Raiders are seen as the ideal destination for Wilson, offering him a starting opportunity for the 2024 season.

Justin Fields' future landing spot is less certain. While the Chicago Bears have been linked to Fields, recent analysis suggests that the Falcons, who are unlikely to trade up in the draft, are more focused on Kirk Cousins. The Pittsburgh Steelers could make a desperate move for Fields, potentially offering a third-round pick and a conditional future pick. It remains to be seen how creative the Bears will be in maximizing their return for Fields.

Gardner Minshew, who had an impressive season as a backup in Indianapolis, is likely to continue in a backup role for the Minnesota Vikings. With Kirk Cousins heading to Atlanta, the Vikings are expected to select a quarterback in the first round of the draft, giving them the option to slowly ease the rookie into the starting role while benefiting from Minshew's experience.

Ryan Tannehill's time with the Tennessee Titans is coming to an end, and the New York Jets are seen as a potential landing spot for him as a reliable backup for Aaron Rodgers. Jacoby Brissett, a solid backup quarterback, could find himself with the Washington Commanders, who are expected to select a quarterback with the second overall pick in the draft.

Jameis Winston, who expressed a desire for another chance as a starter, could reunite with Sean Payton in Denver. The Broncos, who are predicted to pass on selecting a quarterback in the first round, may view Winston as a short-term starter and mentor to their eventual long-term quarterback.

Other predicted landing spots include Tyrod Taylor in Tennessee, Drew Lock and Tyler Huntley staying in their respective teams as backups, Josh Dobbs returning to Arizona, Joe Flacco becoming a backup option for the Cleveland Browns, and Jimmy Garoppolo potentially returning to the New England Patriots in a likely backup role.

With NFL free agency set to begin, these predictions provide a glimpse into the potential future destinations for these quarterbacks. Only time will tell how accurate these speculations turn out to be.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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