NFL Rumors: Vic Fangio Retirement Scare, Packers Extensions & Kirk Cousins Update

The NFL offseason is already generating significant movement, even before it officially begins. Teams across the league are evaluating their rosters and coaching staffs, anticipating the start of the new league year in March. Key decisions loom regarding player cuts, potential trades, contract extensions, and the use of the franchise tag.

Eagles’ Vic Fangio Briefly Considered Retirement

The Philadelphia Eagles faced a potential crisis this offseason when defensive coordinator Vic Fangio informed the team of his intention to retire shortly after the season concluded. According to reports, the Eagles were prepared to contact former Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon and Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz as potential replacements. Fortunately for Philadelphia, they were able to convince Fangio to return. Gannon previously served as the Eagles’ defensive coordinator for two seasons (2021-22) before moving to Arizona in 2023.

Did You Know? Vic Fangio’s defensive units have consistently ranked among the league’s best, with the Eagles’ defense placing in the top five in scoring in both 2024 and 2025.

The Eagles have also made changes on the offensive side of the ball, hiring Packers quarterbacks coach Sean Mannion as their new offensive coordinator following the departure of Kevin Patullo.

Packers Secure Key Leadership with Extensions

The Green Bay Packers have demonstrated a commitment to continuity by extending the contracts of General Manager Brian Gutekunst, Executive Vice President/Director of Football Operations Russ Ball, and Head Coach Matt LaFleur. The extensions were announced by Packers President/CEO Ed Policy on Friday. This move follows a 9-8-1 season that saw the Packers make their third consecutive playoff appearance – their sixth in the last seven years.

Expert Insight: Extending key personnel like Gutekunst, Ball, and LaFleur signals a strong belief in the current organizational direction and a desire for stability as the Packers navigate the competitive NFC landscape.

Despite a five-game losing streak that included a 31-27 loss to Chicago in the NFC Wild Card round, and a regular season finale where starters were rested, the Packers organization expressed confidence in their leadership. LaFleur has amassed a 76-40-1 regular-season record and has led the team to the playoffs in all but one of his seven seasons, including NFC Championship Game appearances in 2019 and 2020. Green Bay has secured a playoff berth as the NFC’s seventh seed for the past three seasons.

Falcons Weigh Options with Kirk Cousins

Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins’ future with the Atlanta Falcons is uncertain, as the team is reportedly planning to release him, according to reports. However, the Falcons could be open to re-signing Cousins to a more affordable contract. Cousins, 37, joined the Falcons in 2024 on a four-year, $180 million deal after recovering from an Achilles injury.

While Cousins started eight games in 2025, completing 61.7% of his passes for 1,721 yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions with an 84.8 passer rating, he was eventually benched in favor of Michael Penix Jr., the Falcons’ eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Penix’s season was cut short by an ACL tear in November, leading to Cousins’ return to the starting role. Despite a 5-3 record during Cousins’ starts, the Falcons’ new leadership, including Matt Ryan and Kevin Stefanski, are evaluating all options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Vic Fangio almost leave the Eagles?

Yes, Vic Fangio informed the Eagles of his intention to retire shortly after the 2025 season, but was ultimately convinced to return as defensive coordinator.

Who did the Eagles consider as replacements for Fangio?

If Vic Fangio had retired, the Eagles were planning to contact former Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon and Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz.

What is the status of Kirk Cousins’ contract with the Falcons?

The Falcons are planning to release Kirk Cousins, but are reportedly open to re-signing him on a cheaper contract.

As teams navigate the complexities of the offseason, will strategic roster moves and coaching decisions ultimately define their paths to success in the upcoming season?