The Las Vegas Raiders are at a crossroads concerning their quarterback scenario. Holding the sixth general choose within the 2025 NFL Draft, the crew is in a precarious place, as the highest three groups all have important quarterback wants. With solely three clear first-round skills on the place, there’s no assure that the Raiders will land their most well-liked signal-caller. That uncertainty has fueled hypothesis that the Raiders might pursue a veteran quarterback as a substitute—with Kirk Cousins rising as a great goal.
The Raiders’ new management duo of head coach Pete Carroll and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly is anticipated to prioritize a robust run sport and environment friendly play-action passing—a philosophy that completely aligns with Cousins’ ability set. Carroll has lengthy favored an offense constructed round ball management, stability, and good decision-making, all of which Cousins has thrived in all through his profession.
“With Pete Carroll returning to the NFL as head coach and Chip Kelly working the offense, the Raiders will wish to set up each success and a transparent offensive identification as rapidly as potential,” wrote Professional Soccer Focus’ John Kosko.
Kirk Cousins might play nicely into the Chip Kelly scheme for the Raiders
Cousins’ skill to execute play-action at a excessive degree can be a major improve over the Raiders’ present choices. Regardless of lacking time in 2024 as a consequence of a torn Achilles, he beforehand posted 5 consecutive seasons with a PFF grade of 80.0 or larger. Whereas he might not be a long-term answer, Cousins might present fast stability at quarterback, permitting Las Vegas to focus their draft capital on different areas of want.
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One main benefit for the Raiders in pursuing Cousins is their offensive infrastructure. Whereas not elite, their offensive line ranked fifteenth in pass-blocking grades final season, in line with PFF. Defending Cousins is crucial for maximizing his effectiveness, and Las Vegas seems well-equipped to take action. Moreover, the Raiders have the second-most cap house within the NFL, giving them the monetary flexibility so as to add extra weapons and enhance safety for his or her quarterback.
“The Raiders have already got a strong pass-blocking offensive line… Mix that with the second-most cap house within the NFL, and Las Vegas has the sources so as to add receiving weapons and shore up any remaining weaknesses on the road,” Kosko added.
Buying Cousins would additionally permit the Raiders to make use of their first-round choose to bolster different areas of the roster. As a substitute of reaching for a quarterback, they might goal a top-tier playmaker, resembling working again Ashton Jeanty or extensive receiver Tetairoa McMillan. Pairing a kind of prospects with Jakobi Meyers and rookie tight finish Brock Bowers would give Las Vegas one of the crucial dynamic skill-position teams within the league.
In the end, the Raiders should resolve whether or not they wish to gamble on the draft or put money into a confirmed veteran like Cousins. With Carroll and Kelly keen to construct a aggressive crew instantly, the latter choice might show to be the most secure and smartest path ahead.