The Atlanta Falcons have engaged in trade discussions regarding quarterback Kirk Cousins despite public denials, with sources indicating the team has established a significant asking price from potential trade partners.
According to league sources, Atlanta has requested that any team acquiring Cousins absorb $20 million of the $45 million in remaining guaranteed money on his contract, a figure that has deterred serious offers thus far.
The situation remains fluid heading into the NFL Draft weekend, with several quarterback-needy teams potentially reassessing their willingness to take on portions of Cousins\' contract depending on their draft outcomes.
Sources believe teams like the Minnesota Vikings or Pittsburgh Steelers might be willing to pay approximately $10 million of Cousins\' guarantees, though not the full $20 million Atlanta has requested.
The compensation framework appears flexible, with the Falcons willing to accept a sliding scale where higher financial relief would result in lower draft pick compensation, and vice versa.
Both the Falcons organization and Cousins reportedly recognize their partnership isn\'t likely to continue long-term, particularly after Atlanta selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons during the 2024 season, passing for 3,508 yards and 18 touchdowns before his selection was effectively replaced by Penix\'s arrival.
The Falcons also face significant draft needs heading into the weekend, particularly at pass rusher where the team has struggled historically. Atlanta hasn\'t had a player record seven or more sacks in any of the past five seasons, an NFL-worst drought since sacks became an official statistic in 1982.
Arnold Ebiketie led the team with just six sacks in 2024, continuing a troubling trend where Bud Dupree and Calais Campbell (6.5 in 2023), Grady Jarrett (6 in 2022), Dante Fowler Jr. (4.5 in 2021), and Deion Jones (4.5 in 2020) have all failed to reach the seven-sack threshold.
Industry observers expect Atlanta to target a pass rusher with their first-round selection at No. 15 overall, though trading back remains a possibility as the team currently holds only five total draft picks.
The Falcons appear open to moving back in the draft order to accumulate additional selections if a suitable trade partner emerges, potentially giving them more capital to address multiple roster needs beyond their pass rush deficiency.