Dolphins linked to Falcons, Vikings, $180 million four-time Pro Bowl QB in free agency

Dolphins linked to Falcons, Vikings, $180 million four-time Pro Bowl QB in free agency originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Miami Dolphins have some very clear needs this offseason. More help in the secondary, another top wide receiver after Tyreek Hill is cut, and most importantly, a new quarterback is at the top of the list of needs.

Tua Tagovailoa isn't long for the Dolphins roster, whether it's a trade or a release, the $212 million quarterback won't stick in Miami for 2026. But, with a need for the QB spot this offseason, who will the Dolphins pursue?

ESPN's Ben Solak recently linked the Dolphins to one veteran quarterback who could hit the open market this offseason in $180 million, four-time Pro Bowler, former Minnesota Vikings quarterback, and current Atlanta Falcons QB, Kirk Cousins.

Dolphins linked to Kirk Cousins as Tagovailoa replacement

"I like the Dolphins as a Kirk Cousins team," Solak writes, "but if he prefers to return to Minnesota, it's tough to find any ideal options."

Solak believes that Cousins would be the Dolphins' best option this offseason to replace Tagovailoa. He won't cost $180 million, and overall, should be a lot cheaper than the other top options on the market this offseason.

He's also a bit older, at 37 years old. While that might not seem like a good thing, it means the Dolphins wouldn't have to commit to him as the long-term solution at quarterback.

They could go one season with him at quarterback, and then turn around to land a new one in the future without much worry that he'd restrict their cap like Tagovailoa has.

More: Dolphins urged to solve QB dilemma with Tua Tagovailoa's future in Miami

Cousins is coming off his 14th season in the NFL. He's put up an 88-77-2 record with a career completion percentage of 66.7% with 44,700 passing yards, 298 touchdowns, and 131 interceptions in his career.

While not the flashiest option, he's the ideal one for Miami. He will get the Dolphins playmakers the ball, and with how great Jaylen Waddle and De'Von Achane are with the ball in their hands, that skill is a must for Miami.

Cousin's ability as a passer, veteran leadership, and likely cheaper financial commitment make him the clear best choice for the Dolphins in free agency.

He's expected to be cut by the Falcons and hit free agency. But, as Solak warns, if Cousins wants to go back to Minnesota, and the Vikings are welcoming him back as a J.J. McCarthy replacement, then Miami might be a tough sell for Cousins.

Dolphins linked to Kirk Cousins as Tagovailoa replacement

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