NFL power rankings: Which NFC quarterback is best?

12. Kirk Cousins, Minnesota Vikings

Another example of a contract extension gone wrong (and the mistake being doubled-down on) lies with the Vikings. While the Vikings’ starter did make the Pro Bowl in 2019, and lead the franchise back to the playoffs, he is not a long-term solution at the position nor is he going to lead the team to a Super Bowl title.

At 31 years old, Cousins may very well have posted the best season of his career in 2019 with 3600 yards, 26 touchdowns, six interceptions and a career-high 107.4 passer rating.

If Cousins can go out and be the type of quarterback that wins games for the team, rather than merely avoids losing them, maybe he an move up this list as the season goes along. But for now, he’s at the bottom of a very crowded middle-of-the-pack.

11. Jimmy Garoppolo, San Francisco 49ers

Speaking of quarterbacks whose teams are winning in spite of their relatively average play, the defending NFC champions are next up in our rankings.

Don’t get us wrong: Jimmy G. had a good 2019 season. After posting a 13-3 record with nearly 4,000 yards and 27 touchdowns, he led San Francisco all the way to Super Bowl LIV.

So, what did we actually learn about Garoppolo? We learned with a top three defense, a top-three running game and an excellent offensive line, he can win. But, we also learned that pressure situations which require him to be great may be above his pay grade.

What does 2020 have in store for Garoppolo? Who knows. It almost included riding the bench for Tom Brady, again.