NFL Rumors: 3 Potential Trade Destinations For Kirk Cousins

The Atlanta Falcons may explore trading veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins this offseason after benching him late in the 2024 season for rookie Michael Penix Jr.

Cousins, under contract through 2027 with a $40 million cap hit for 2025, is an expensive backup option for Atlanta.

General Manager Terry Fontenot acknowledged the possibility of a trade, stating, "We are very comfortable moving forward with him as the backup, but we’ll always listen if the right offer comes along."

A trade would provide financial relief and an opportunity to address other roster needs.

ESPN’s ‘First Take’ panel discusses #Falcons GM Terry Fontenot’s comments on Kirk Cousins…

Stephen A. Smith: “What you’re saying is ‘he’s ours until he’s not, why would we de-value him?’…say every glowing thing you can about him.”

Elle Duncan: “What team is trading for that… pic.twitter.com/kNca4rmQHY
— Bryce Lewis (@Bryce_Lewis86) January 9, 2025

Maurice Moton of Bleacher Report has proposed three teams and trade packages they could put together to acquire the veteran quarterback.

The Cleveland Browns could be a strong candidate, given Deshaun Watson’s uncertain recovery from a second Achilles tear. Cleveland could offer a 2025 fourth-round pick and safety Juan Thornhill, who is entering the final year of his deal.

Thornhill’s versatility would enhance Atlanta’s secondary, pairing him with Jessie Bates III and Justin Simmons in Raheem Morris’ nickel-heavy schemes.

Another option is the New York Jets, who face ongoing uncertainty about Aaron Rodgers’ future.

The Jets could package a 2025 fourth-round pick and edge rusher Micheal Clemons, a young pass rusher coming off a 4.5-sack season, to bolster Atlanta’s struggling pass rush.

Falcons GM Terry Fontenot on Kirk Cousins:

"We are very comfortable with Kirk as the backup.. "

Sorry... you can't be comfortable with a $100-million back up. pic.twitter.com/8H4GaVvzYb
— Zach Klein (@ZachKleinWSB) January 9, 2025