The Los Angeles Rams are looking to build the strongest quarterback group in the entire NFL through an ambitious plan that would feature two highly capable veterans as backups, players who have demonstrated their quality over the years.
Head coach Sean McVay is leaving nothing to chance and wants two reliable options behind starting quarterback Matthew Stafford, who recently signed a one-year extension with the franchise in pursuit of another Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Jimmy Garoppolo and Kirk Cousins are both potential candidates to take on the QB2 role in Los Angeles. Garoppolo was already part of the team last season and proved to be a valuable asset, stepping in effectively when Stafford was sidelined by injury.
Cousins, on the other hand, could face a more complex situation, as he still draws interest from several franchises seeking a starting quarterback. Despite that, the possibility remains on the table. Both players still possess the talent to lead offenses for teams willing to invest in them during free agency.
Garoppolo spent the 2024 and 2025 seasons with the Rams, while Cousins shares a history with McVay that could play a key role in any potential move.
Sean McVay would welcome Kirk Cousins as a potential option
At the moment, McVay has not made a definitive decision regarding Garoppolo’s future as Stafford’s backup. The coach is taking his time before committing, and in the meantime, he has openly acknowledged that Cousins is also being considered.
If it’s not Jimmy, (like) Kirk Cousins? Of course. I’d love to be able to be able to see what that looks like. So those are two guys we’ve talked about.
It is worth remembering that McVay and Cousins worked together during their time with the Washington Commanders, where McVay served as offensive coordinator for three years before becoming the head coach of the Rams.
Even before that role, McVay had been the tight ends coach, meaning his professional relationship with Cousins dates back to 2012. That familiarity could ultimately work in Cousins’ favor.
Those are things that we’re very interested in possibly exploring, but again, it’s really premature.”…”I know Kirk has some other options and opportunities as well, but he’s a guy that I have familiarity with, history and a lot of reverence for because of the gratitude from our experiences together.
McVay said a potential reunion with Cousins.
For now, Cousins remains unsigned, and nearly a month into free agency, no team has made a move to bring him in. During the offseason, following the conclusion of the previous campaign, he was released by the Atlanta Falcons, who are expected to move forward with a quarterback competition between Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa.
Last season, Cousins returned to a starting role after Penix Jr. suffered an injury, and his numbers were as follows:
- 10 games
- 10 touchdowns
- 5 interceptions
- 1,721 yards
- 84.8 passer rating
- 61.7% completion percentage
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