Kirk Cousins rumors are only going to grow by the day -- that is until he finally decides where he will play in 2018. The former Michigan State and current Washington Redskins star, Cousins, along with Vikings QB Case Keenum are just two of the biggest names who are getting ready to hit the open market. Well, that is unless they are slapped with the “franchise tag” by their current teams. Teams have until March 6 to use the franchise tag on any players.

What we know so far

The rumors are just starting to simmer about Cousins, Keenum and many key NFL free agents as the NFL deadline for free agency draws closer.

According to NFL.com, March 14th is a key date on the offseason calendar for free agents. At 4 p.m. ET on the 14th of March, 2017 NFL contracts will officially expire -- meaning Cousins, Keenum and other stars like Steelers RB Le'Veon Bell, Saints QB Drew Brees and hundreds of other players can officially sign with whichever team makes them an offer.

Could Cousins be heading to Minnesota, replacing last year’s toast of the town in the Twin Cities, Case Keenum?

According to NBC Sports, NFL Insider Ian Rapoport tweeted earlier this afternoon that the Vikings will not be placing a franchise tag on Keenum, meaning they most likely won’t be bringing him back.

“Barring a change of heart, Minnesota joins the fray for a starting QB… and will make these next few weeks fascinating.”

With Keenum likely on the move, Cousins' chance of a return to Washington is slim to none following the Redskins' trade for former Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith. Sure, the Redskins could franchise Cousins, but why?

It is hard to believe they would unless they want to drop $45 million per season on two quarterbacks!

Broncos, Jets still in play?

If not the Vikings for Cousins, then who? The Denver Broncos, that's who! It is no surprise that as soon as the Redskins traded for Alex Smith, most NFL fans knew Kirk Cousins was going to hit the open market -- and John Elway and the Denver Broncos seem like the perfect fit.

The Broncos, who are just two seasons removed from being Super Bowl champions, still have a ton of talent on both sides of the ball. Unfortunately, they are struggling at the QB position. Kirk Cousins and Denver would be one of the top favored teams in the AFC. Several rumors have linked Cousins to Denver, but time will tell.

One other strong connection for Cousins is the New York Jets. The Jets may have the most money of all the teams out there that are in need of a quarterback. The only decision for Cousins is: Does he want to go to a team he believes he can help lead to a Super Bowl in the next season or two, or does he just want a huge payday?
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