The Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers faced off in Week 8 of the NFL season. It was the 4th quarter, with 10:30 left on the clock, and the Vikings were dominating their NFC North rivals on their home turf. On 3rd & 19 at Green Bay’s 22, the ball was snapped, an unremarkable play that would change the trajectory of Kirk Cousins’ career and the fortunes of two NFL franchises.
That game seemed to mark the end of Kirk Cousins’ era with the Vikings. Up until that moment, the veteran quarterback was playing at an MVP level, silencing critics who had long labeled him as merely an above-average player. However, an Achilles tendon tear sidelined him, leading to a crucial question that has lingered ever since: Considering his injury and age, what can we expect from Kirk Cousins upon his return? And naturally, this brings up the fundamental question for many fans: How Old Is Kirk Cousins as he embarks on this new chapter?
Kirk Cousins’ Performance Before the Injury
To understand the expectations surrounding Cousins, it’s essential to look back at his stellar 2023 season before the injury. At the time of his injury, Cousins was performing at an elite level. His +4.5% Completion Percentage Over Expectation (CPOE) was the fourth-best in the NFL, and his +9.9 Expected Points Added (EPA) ranked seventh, according to NFL Next Gen Stats. He was particularly effective in the intermediate passing game, between 10 to 19 yards downfield. Pro Football Focus graded him as the fifth-best intermediate passer in the league. Despite playing only eight games, Cousins tied for fifth in intermediate passing touchdowns with eight, while throwing just one interception in that zone. Adding to his impressive stats, Cousins also endured the second-most on-target drops in the intermediate range, suggesting his numbers could have been even higher. Under Cousins, the Vikings held a 4-4 record and appeared to be gaining momentum for a playoff push after decisive wins against strong teams like the San Francisco 49ers and the Green Bay Packers.
It’s important to note that this high level of play wasn’t achieved against weak opponents. Five of the eight teams Cousins faced were playoff contenders. Against this challenging schedule, he completed 151 of 211 passes (71.5%) for 1,644 yards, throwing 12 touchdowns and only two interceptions. Furthermore, he played the final three games before his injury without his primary target, Justin Jefferson. This exceptional performance is a key reason why the Atlanta Falcons were quick to sign Cousins. They were investing in his proven track record and high ceiling, not just a hot streak. And to answer the initial question directly, as Kirk Cousins transitions to lead the Atlanta Falcons, he is 36 years old. Born on August 19, 1988, his age is a significant factor in discussions about his recovery and future performance post-injury.
What Do the Falcons Need from an Injured, 36-Year-Old Cousins?
The Atlanta Falcons recognized their most pressing need was stability at the quarterback position. Kirk Cousins embodies consistency. Throughout his NFL career, he has been remarkably reliable. While he may have faced criticisms, he has consistently performed as at least an average NFL quarterback. For a franchise like the Falcons, even average quarterback play represents a significant upgrade and could energize the team and its fanbase. The excitement around Cousins’ arrival in Atlanta is palpable, and the expectation is that he will bring a new level of competence to their offense.
However, Cousins is now 36 and recovering from a serious Achilles injury. An Achilles tear is a significant setback, especially for players in their mid-30s. The Falcons are betting that Cousins’ playing style, which isn’t predicated on exceptional athleticism, will allow him to overcome this injury. His strength lies in his ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and deliver accurate passes, particularly in that crucial intermediate range. If the Falcons can provide solid pass protection, allowing Cousins to operate from the pocket, he should be able to effectively run the offense.
The Falcons’ coaching staff will undoubtedly tailor their offensive scheme to maximize Cousins’ strengths and mitigate any limitations from his injury. A quick passing game, structured plays, and reliance on his accuracy and football IQ will be key components. Players like Bijan Robinson and the receiving corps will be crucial in turning Cousins’ accurate throws into significant gains.
While there is optimism surrounding Cousins’ potential in Atlanta, questions remain. How will the Achilles injury truly affect his mobility and arm strength? Will he be able to regain his pre-injury form? The answers will begin to emerge as Cousins takes the field. His first few games with the Falcons will be closely scrutinized. A strong start will validate the Falcons’ investment and reassure fans, while a slow start might raise concerns and perhaps even premature calls for backup options. Regardless of initial outcomes, the full picture of what the Falcons can expect from a 36-year-old Kirk Cousins coming off a major injury will unfold over the course of the season.
