The NFL trade deadline is still weeks away, but the rumor mill is already churning in Las Vegas. Kirk Cousins, the veteran quarterback who signed a two-year deal with the Raiders, has been playing some of the best football of his career. Yet whispers around the league suggest the Silver and Black could ship him out before Nov. 10.
Cousins has been sharp in Klint Kubiak's offense, completing 62.6% of his passes for 1,877 yards and 16 touchdowns. He's been so effective that No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza has been relegated to clipboard duty, biding his time on the bench. But with a $10 million roster bonus looming next March, the Raiders might be looking to cut ties early.
Why a Trade Makes Sense
According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, a Cousins trade isn't imminent, but it's certainly possible if the Raiders keep sliding. Pelissero noted that Cousins isn't expected to be on the roster next season, so moving him now would give the team extra draft capital for 2027.
"Half the league runs a derivative of the offense he plays in. He's playing at a really high level and he has a $10 million roster bonus next March," Pelissero said. "The Raiders might have an opportunity to offload that money, get a pick for a guy they'll probably cut in March and play the No. 1 pick."
That last part is key. Mendoza, the top selection in this year's draft, is waiting in the wings. The Raiders didn't draft him to ride the pine forever, and Cousins' strong play has created an awkward logjam. If Las Vegas can flip Cousins for a draft pick, it clears the path for Mendoza to take over while also freeing up cap space.
Eagles Eyed as Potential Suitor
If the Raiders do decide to move Cousins, Pelissero believes the Philadelphia Eagles could be an intriguing destination. The Eagles have Cousins' former backup, Sean Mannion, as their offensive coordinator, and they run a similar system.
"The Eagles have his former backup quarterback, Sean Mannion, as their offensive coordinator. They could bring in Kirk and play that offense. … I would not take that off the table until we get to Nov. 10," Pelissero said.
Philadelphia is currently without Jalen Hurts, forcing Tanner McKee into the starting lineup. McKee has thrown for 426 yards, two touchdowns and an interception in his last two starts. Adding Cousins would give the Eagles a proven veteran to steady the ship and keep them competitive in the NFC East.
What's Next for Las Vegas?
The Raiders' season has been a mixed bag. Cousins has put up solid numbers, but the team hasn't exactly set the world on fire. If the losses pile up, the front office may decide to sell off assets and look toward the future. That could mean saying goodbye to Cousins earlier than expected.
It's worth noting that the Raiders have other pressing matters, too. Trade talks surrounding Maxx Crosby have set a high bar for any potential deal, and the team is still mourning the loss of franchise legend Pete Banaszak, whose death at 82 has hit the organization hard.
For now, Cousins remains a Raider. But with the deadline approaching and Mendoza waiting in the wings, the clock is ticking. Don't be surprised if this situation heats up in the coming weeks.
