Will the 49ers Trade for Kirk Cousins if They Don’t Extend Brock Purdy?

The San Francisco 49ers face a major decision regarding their quarterback situation. With Brock Purdy heading into the final years of his contract and no extension in place, speculation is growing about whether the team could turn to veteran Kirk Cousins if they fail to reach a deal with Purdy. Could the 49ers really make such a bold move? Let’s explore the possibilities.

The Contract Stalemate with Brock Purdy

Brock Purdy has exceeded expectations since stepping into the 49ers’ starting role. As a former last-round draft pick, he has played well beyond his draft status, leading San Francisco deep into the playoffs. However, with his rookie contract nearing its end, Purdy is due for a major payday. If the 49ers hesitate to commit long-term, franchise tagging him could be an option, but that comes with its own risks and financial implications.

Kyle Shanahan’s Connection to Kirk Cousins

49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan has long been an admirer of Kirk Cousins. When Shanahan was the offensive coordinator in Washington, he worked closely with Cousins and has expressed interest in him in the past. There was even speculation that the 49ers could have pursued Cousins before they acquired Jimmy Garoppolo. With the Minnesota Vikings potentially looking to move on from Cousins in the near future, a trade could make sense if the 49ers feel uncertain about Purdy’s long-term future.

Is Kirk Cousins a Better Fit for the 49ers?

While Purdy has shown promise, Cousins brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record as a reliable starter. Cousins has consistently put up impressive numbers throughout his career, and in Shanahan’s offensive system, he could thrive. However, at 36 years old by the start of the 2025 season, he is not a long-term solution. Trading for him would mean prioritizing short-term success over developing a young franchise quarterback.

The Financial Implications of a Trade

Purdy is still on his rookie contract, which allows the 49ers to allocate resources elsewhere. Trading for Cousins would come at a steep price, both in terms of draft capital and salary cap space. His contract demands could limit San Francisco’s ability to strengthen other areas of the team, such as the offensive line or defense. Would the 49ers be willing to sacrifice future flexibility for a short-term upgrade at quarterback?

What Are the 49ers’ Other Options?

If the 49ers decide against a Cousins trade and fail to extend Purdy, they could explore other options. One route would be drafting a young quarterback to develop behind Purdy, ensuring they have a backup plan if negotiations stall. Alternatively, they could explore lower-cost veteran options in free agency. A trade for Cousins would be a win-now move, but it might not be the best long-term solution.

Final Verdict: Will the 49ers Make the Move?

The likelihood of a Kirk Cousins trade hinges on how negotiations with Brock Purdy unfold. If the 49ers can secure Purdy with a reasonable extension, they have no need for Cousins. However, if contract talks reach an impasse and the team loses confidence in Purdy’s future, bringing in Cousins could be a possibility. Ultimately, it comes down to whether San Francisco values continuity with Purdy or is willing to gamble on an aging veteran to maximize their immediate Super Bowl window.

For now, all eyes are on the 49ers’ front office to see which direction they choose.