As the NFL Draft approaches, the future of quarterback Kirk Cousins is a hot topic, with multiple teams eyeing a potential trade. Cousins, who spent the last season with the Atlanta Falcons after leaving the Minnesota Vikings, could be on the move again, with the Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, and even a possible reunion with the Vikings all in the mix.
According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, the Browns and Steelers are seen as serious contenders for Cousins, while the Vikings are considered the "least likely scenario" for a trade. This assessment is largely due to Minnesota's commitment to their 2024 first-round pick, J.J. McCarthy, and the fact that Cousins has expressed reluctance to join a team with a younger quarterback, as he experienced in Atlanta last year.
Cousins, now 36, had a challenging 2024 season with the Falcons, throwing 18 touchdowns against an NFL-leading 16 interceptions in just 14 games. His struggles led to rookie Michael Penix Jr. taking over as the starter, leaving Cousins in a precarious position as he looks to find a new home where he can compete for a starting role.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris acknowledged Cousins' desire for a fresh start, stating, "This is not a thing where we’re holding [Cousins] back if the opportunity [for a trade] presents itself. If it’s something that’s good for both of us — it’s good for the Falcons and Kirk Cousins — we certainly would like to see that happen." However, Morris also emphasized the team's investment in Cousins, making it clear they are not eager to let him go without a suitable arrangement.
The Steelers have been actively pursuing veteran quarterbacks this offseason, initially targeting Aaron Rodgers. With Rodgers still undecided, Cousins could emerge as an attractive alternative. The Steelers hold the 21st pick in the upcoming draft, and if they do not select a quarterback, general manager Omar Khan may reach out to the Falcons to discuss a potential trade.
Meanwhile, the Browns are also in the market for a quarterback after Deshaun Watson sustained an Achilles injury in October 2024, followed by another surgery in January 2025 that has left his status for the upcoming season uncertain. The return of veteran Joe Flacco adds depth, but the Browns may still seek to bolster their quarterback situation with Cousins.
While the Vikings have a history with Cousins, having played there from 2018 to 2023 and throwing 171 touchdowns, their commitment to McCarthy complicates any potential reunion. McCarthy has yet to take an NFL snap due to a knee injury suffered last season, raising questions about whether Minnesota is willing to gamble on a veteran like Cousins as a backup.
Reports suggest that if a trade is to happen, it could occur on Saturday, April 26, 2025, during the third day of the NFL Draft. This timing aligns with the urgency of teams looking to solidify their quarterback positions before the season begins.
As the draft approaches, the landscape of NFL quarterbacks could shift dramatically. Cousins' ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be crucial, especially considering the skepticism surrounding his performance in the previous season. Although he struggled in Atlanta, there is hope that a change of scenery could reignite his career.
Teams like the Browns and Steelers are looking for a bridge quarterback who can provide stability while they groom a younger prospect. For Cousins, this could mean another opportunity to prove he still has what it takes to be a starter in the league, even as he navigates the challenges of finding a new home.
Ultimately, the decision will hinge on whether the Falcons are willing to part ways with Cousins and if the interested teams can agree on a suitable compensation package. With the draft just days away, all eyes will be on Atlanta and the potential for a trade that could reshape the quarterback landscape heading into the 2025 NFL season.
As teams weigh their options, the possibility of a Cousins trade remains a developing story, with implications for both his career and the franchises looking to secure a reliable quarterback. The coming days will be pivotal, and fans are eager to see how this narrative unfolds.
