Kirk Cousins’ story in the NFL is the ultimate tale of patience, perseverance, and knowing your worth. At 36 years old and with a net worth of $160 million, Cousins has carved out a career that’s as remarkable for its financial wins as it is for his steady play on the field. And let’s be honest, his career earnings—set to top $410 million by the end of his current contract—are nothing short of jaw-dropping.
From being a fourth-round pick in 2012 to becoming one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in NFL history, Cousins’ journey is a testament to smart financial decisions, a little luck, and a whole lot of self-belief.
Humble Beginnings in Washington
Cousins wasn’t supposed to be the star. In fact, when Washington drafted him out of Michigan State, he was seen as an insurance policy—a backup to Robert Griffin III, the flashy first-rounder who was supposed to lead the franchise for the next decade. But life in the NFL rarely goes according to plan.
After RGIII’s unfortunate injuries, Cousins stepped in. By 2015, he was the guy in Washington, and he didn’t disappoint. That year, he led the team to a playoff berth, famously shouting “You like that?!” after a massive comeback win against the Buccaneers.
The front office wasn’t quite ready to commit long-term, so Washington slapped the franchise tag on him in 2016 and again in 2017. Those one-year deals netted him $22 million and $24 million, respectively. If they had tagged him for a third time, it would’ve cost them 44% more—so they let him walk. Cousins took the risk of playing on those tags, betting on himself instead of taking a safer, long-term deal.
The Game-Changer: Minnesota Vikings Contract
In 2018, Cousins hit free agency and landed a fully guaranteed three-year, $84 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings. That deal was groundbreaking. Fully guaranteed contracts were almost unheard of in the NFL, and Cousins’ move made waves. It wasn’t just a financial win; it was a sign of changing times for NFL contracts.
With the Vikings, Cousins was solid. He consistently put up big numbers, even if the Vikings’ playoff runs didn’t yield Super Bowl appearances. In 2020, he signed a two-year, $66 million extension, including a $30 million signing bonus.
For all the talk about his “ceiling” as a player, Cousins’ financial ceiling kept rising. By the time his Vikings stint ended, he had earned well over $231 million in salary alone.
Atlanta and the $180 Million Deal
Fast forward to 2024. Cousins was once again a free agent, and despite being 35, teams still saw value in him. The Atlanta Falcons swooped in with a four-year, $180 million contract, including $100 million guaranteed and a $50 million signing bonus.
The Falcons’ gamble looked solid at first. Cousins was playing well, but then came an Achilles injury in Week 8 of the 2023 season. Injuries are part of the game, but this one sidelined him for the remainder of the year.
By December 2024, rumors were swirling that the Falcons might cut him, even as they benched him. If that happens, Atlanta will still owe him $90 million. That’s the power of guaranteed money. Even if his time in Atlanta ends abruptly, Cousins’ bank account will remain unscathed.
The Numbers Behind the Man
Let’s break it down:
- Career Earnings (by 2024): $231 million (before the Falcons deal)
- Current Contract: $180 million (4 years)
- Guaranteed Money: $100 million
- Net Worth: $160 million
- Projected Career Earnings by 2028: Over $410 million
Cousins’ path isn’t just about athletic talent—it’s about business smarts and playing the long game.
On and Off the Field
Cousins isn’t flashy. He’s not throwing no-look passes like Patrick Mahomes or dazzling with athleticism like Lamar Jackson. But what he lacks in flair, he makes up for with precision, durability (barring that Achilles injury), and professionalism.
Off the field, Cousins leads a grounded life. He married Julie Hampton in 2014, and together they have two sons, Cooper and Turner. A practicing evangelical Christian, Cousins keeps his personal life low-key, rarely drawing attention to himself.
Even as the spotlight shines brighter on younger quarterbacks, Cousins remains a steady figure—often underestimated, but rarely underpaid.
Betting on Yourself
Cousins’ story is inspiring for anyone who feels like the underdog. He wasn’t the highest draft pick, the flashiest player, or the instant star. But through careful decision-making, a strong work ethic, and sheer belief, he’s maximized his earnings and solidified his legacy.
He’s living proof that betting on yourself—when done wisely—can lead to monumental success. For Kirk Cousins, it wasn’t just about football; it was about understanding his value and refusing to settle.
And as his career winds down (whenever that may be), one thing is certain: Cousins’ financial playbook is as impressive as his play on the field.
