Falcons Hold the Line on Kirk Cousins as Trade Rumors Heat Up
As the new NFL year kicks off, the Atlanta Falcons are holding off on making a decision about quarterback Kirk Cousins. Reports indicate that the team has no immediate plans to release him, primarily due to financial implications that would arise if they did. Instead, the Falcons appear to be strategically eyeing potential trade opportunities with teams like the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Falcons have made it clear that they are not eager to help other teams by cutting Cousins, especially if it means absorbing a significant financial liability. Cousins is due a guaranteed salary of $27.5 million for 2025, and releasing him would also trigger a $10 million roster bonus. This makes it less appealing for Atlanta to let him go freely when they still have leverage.
This decision seems to be influenced by the current quarterback landscape across the league, which is seeing a shortage of experienced signal-callers. The Falcons are aware that teams like the Browns are on the lookout for a quarterback to provide depth and experience, especially since Cousins has previously worked with Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski. This connection could make Cousins an attractive option if he becomes available.
On the flip side, the Steelers may also view Cousins as a viable option, particularly if their pursuits of other quarterbacks, like Aaron Rodgers, don’t pan out. Should Rodgers opt for retirement or another team, Cousins could emerge as an emergency backup plan for Pittsburgh ahead of the 2025 season.
Despite the tumultuous quarterback situation, the Falcons are not in a rush to find a resolution. They are prepared to retain Cousins as a backup if they cannot secure a worthwhile trade. The organization is aware that keeping him means they would still incur the costs, but they also understand that Cousins is a seasoned player who has shown professionalism even when faced with challenges.
This dynamic raises ongoing questions about Cousins’ future. He has expressed a desire to start and play regularly in the NFL, a topic he discussed in a recent meeting with Falcons owner Arthur Blank. However, the Falcons’ front office has adopted a pragmatic approach, maintaining that there’s no obligation to release him simply to accommodate his wishes while still having to meet his salary demands.
The Falcons’ focus now appears to be on finding a favorable trade scenario where they can capitalize on Cousins’ market value without jeopardizing their own financial standing.
Meanwhile, as the Falcons explore options, their focus includes players like the Browns’ current quarterbacks and potential free agents. The Browns are actively pursuing meetings with other quarterbacks, indicating their need to bolster their lineup. However, as the team considers all avenues, Cousins remains a prominent figure in their conversations.
Panthers Preparations for the Future
In other news within the NFC South, the Carolina Panthers are showing caution regarding running back Jonathon Brooks, who is dealing with his second ACL tear. The organization is cautious about rushing Brooks back onto the field too quickly and has signed running back Rico Dowdle to a one-year deal. This move suggests a strategy to ensure Brooks can fully recover and develop without the pressure of immediate performance.
Brooks’ injury history prompts concerns about his long-term capabilities, and the Panthers appear committed to providing him with the necessary time to heal. By allowing him to sit out the entirety of the 2025 season, the team hopes to help him regain confidence in his knee, with eyes set on a stronger return in 2026.
With minimal playing time over the past few seasons, there is a valid concern regarding Brooks’ development as a player. The Panthers wish to tread carefully with his training and game plans, ensuring they don’t risk his playing future.
Rising Stars: Judkins in Draft Discussions
As the draft approaches, attention is shifting to emerging talents like Quinshon Judkins from Ohio State. Following impressive performances at the scouting combine, where he showcased remarkable speed and agility, Judkins is generating buzz as a first-round pick. His physical style of play and strong combine showing have left an impression on scouts, suggesting he could fill a significant role for a team in need of a running back.
Teams appear to be leaning towards selecting younger running backs, valuing the talent pool available in this draft class over high-priced veterans. If the trend continues, Judkins may find himself in a prime position to be one of the earliest running backs chosen, likely matching teams seeking fresh talent for the future.
As the Falcons and Panthers navigate their respective challenges, the emergence of young talent and strategic trade considerations will shape the unfolding landscape of the NFL in the coming months.
