NFL may change contract rule following Kirk Cousins deal

Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) throws a pass against the New Orleans Saints in the fourth quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images | Brett Davis-Imagn Images

This week the Las Vegas Raiders added a new quarterback to the roster in Kirk Cousins. Cousins has familiarity with head coach Klint Kubiak working with him in 2021 with the Minnesota Vikings. He will be the bridge to eventual number one pick Fernando Mendoza this season.

There has been controversy with his contract after it was announced as a 5-year $172 million dollar deal. The controversy comes from the loophole that allows the Raiders to pay Cousins $20 million. However, they only need to pay $11.3 million this season, while the Atlanta Falcons remain responsible for the difference.

It has led writers such as Albert Breer and Mike Florio to suggest that it might prompt a rule change by the league.

... And FWIW, I'll be interested to see if owners look to close the opening that Kirk Cousins and his people found here to get him the extra $10 million for 2027.

Lots of teams have policies on including offsets. Cousins is basically circumventing that to double dip. https://t.co/coBDzd6dw5

- Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) April 3, 2026

Pay him the minimum now, and promise more later. Legitimate or not under current rules, it seems as if the Raiders have pulled a fast one." Florio said.

While the Raiders have been critized for giving out bad deals it seems now even when the franchise does well media gets skeptical. It was a great deal worked out by Spytek finding a loophole that could help secure their spot-starter for 2026. Hopefully Spytek keeps wheeling and dealing as the Silver and Black GM.

In other Raiders news:

• Tape Don't Lie film breakdown with draft prospect Marcus Allen: North Carolina cornerback Marcus Allen joins the TDL crew for a film breakdown and interview.
• Rob Leonard knows the Silver and Black are just different: Eric Allen of the Raiders network interviews the new defensive coordinator.
• 2026 offseason program dates set for the Raiders: Check out the 2026 offseason program schedule for the Silver and black.