As the NFL wrapped up its opening week of the 2026 season on September 16, Kirk Cousins found himself in elite company—and he couldn’t help but crack a smile about it. The Las Vegas Raiders quarterback threw his 301st career touchdown pass in Sunday’s 27-13 victory over the Miami Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium, leapfrogging Hall of Famer John Elway on the NFL’s all-time passing touchdowns list. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the 38-year-old veteran’s reaction was as memorable as the milestone itself.
A Humble and Hilarious Reaction
Mic’d up for the game, Cousins was overheard after the win discussing the achievement with a man on the field. “Hell of an accomplishment,” the man said, referencing Cousins’ record-breaking score to rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, who had also caught an earlier touchdown. Cousins, ever self-deprecating, replied with a grin: “Yeah, thank you, yeah. I just passed John Elway, I think.” After confirmation, he added, “It’s a decent name. He had a decent career.” The moment, captured by NFL Films and shared widely on social media, showcased Cousins’ characteristic humility and wit.
“It’s a decent name. He had a decent career.” — Kirk Cousins on passing John Elway
Cousins became the 15th quarterback in NFL history to reach 300 career touchdown passes, a testament to his longevity and consistency. Yet, as highlighted on Vulius, the milestone came amid a mixed performance. He completed 21 of 30 passes for just 160 yards, tossing three touchdowns but also two interceptions. While the Raiders escaped with a win, Cousins struggled on throws beyond 10 yards, completing only 1 of 7 for 21 yards in such situations, per Vincent Bonsignore of The California Post.
What It Means for the Raiders
Despite the victory and the historic achievement, chatter about No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza taking over under center hasn’t quieted. Cousins’ veteran leadership and red-zone efficiency were on display—his three touchdown passes tied a career high for a season opener—but his downfield accuracy remains a concern. For a Raiders team with playoff aspirations, balancing Cousins’ experience with Mendoza’s upside will be a storyline to watch in the coming weeks.
As the season progresses, Cousins’ place in NFL history is secure. But in true Cousins fashion, he’s more focused on winning games than basking in the glow of passing a legend. “It’s a decent name,” he said of Elway. For a quarterback who has quietly compiled a stellar career, that’s about as boastful as it gets. Reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk.
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