**Kirk Cousins’ Future with the Falcons Remains Uncertain Amid Trade Talks**
Kirk Cousins’ tenure with the Minnesota Vikings ended just over a year ago when he signed a four-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons last March. As the NFL Draft approaches, Cousins’ status is a significant factor in the Falcons’ strategy. His unexpected attendance at the team’s voluntary offseason program caught some off guard, but Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot was not among them. “I wouldn’t say a surprise,” Fontenot remarked. “This is a voluntary thing. Whether a player comes or doesn’t come, we have a lot of good professionals who we know are going to take care of their bodies, including Kirk.”
Cousins joined the Falcons last offseason with hopes of securing a starting position, but his time as the starter was short-lived. After struggling with interceptions, he was benched in December in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. Many believe Cousins may have played his last game for the Falcons, as he remained a backup for the final three games of the season.
Since the conclusion of the regular season, the Falcons have attempted to trade Cousins without success. The team is hesitant to release him due to the financial implications of his fully guaranteed salary for the upcoming season. Fontenot has indicated that the team is comfortable keeping Cousins as a backup for the 2025 season, a sentiment echoed by head coach Raheem Morris, who stated that the team still values Cousins in that role. Morris acknowledged that Cousins desires a starting opportunity, even if it means moving to another team. “We won’t hold him back if opportunity presents itself,” Morris said. “He’s made it clear he’d like to be a starter.”
Recently, Falcons owner Arthur Blank revealed he had an extensive conversation with Cousins about his role on the team, describing it as cordial and respectful. Reports from The Athletic’s Senior NFL Insider, Dianna Russini, suggest that at least three NFL teams—namely the Steelers, Browns, and Vikings—are interested in acquiring Cousins. However, any trade would require Cousins’ approval as per his contract.
As the NFL Draft approaches, the possibility of a trade involving Cousins could become a reality, whether through formal negotiations or creative solutions.
**FAQ**
*What teams are interested in trading for Kirk Cousins?*
The Steelers, Browns, and Vikings have shown interest in acquiring Kirk Cousins, but any trade would require his approval.
