Kirk Cousins Goes to The Raiders + Are The Cardinals Eyeing Ty Simpson?

In this episode of Move the Sticks, Daniel Jeremiah and Bucky Brooks break down the latest NFL offseason developments, focusing on the Raiders' surprising move to acquire Kirk Cousins as a veteran mentor for their projected first-overall pick, Fernando Mendoza. The creative contract structure—where the Falcons remain liable for $8.7 million while the Raiders guarantee $10 million in a kicker clause—allows Cousins to earn up to $20 million across two years while giving Mendoza a full year to develop without pressure. The hosts praise the strategic depth of this move, highlighting how it mirrors Tom Brady’s own development under Drew Bledsoe and could revive the long-dormant practice of quarterback development through a true backup role. They also explore the ripple effects across the league, particularly on the Pittsburgh Steelers, who now face a quarterback vacuum if Aaron Rodgers retires and Cousins is off the board. The discussion shifts to Mendoza’s pro day, where his physical frame (238 lbs, thick lower body), leadership, and high football IQ stood out, reinforcing his status as a franchise-caliber prospect. The episode concludes with praise for Cal’s quarterback development program and a look ahead at Day 2 draft prospects. Key takeaways include: 1) The Raiders’ contract structure with Cousins is a masterclass in creative cap management and player development; 2) Mendoza’s size and intelligence make him a rare dual-threat prospect; 3) The potential for a new trend in quarterback development, where rookies sit for a full year; 4) The Steelers’ quarterback situation is now more precarious without Rodgers or Cousins; 5) Cal’s quarterback program is a model of player development through toughness, production, and continuity.