The Atlanta Falcons have publicly confirmed that they could trade Kirk Cousins in the coming days. This was the response from the team’s general manager, Terry Fontenot, when asked about the reported interest from the Pittsburgh Steelers in the quarterback and even the possibility of a return to the Minnesota Vikings.
“With any player, like we’ve always said, we’re going to do what’s best for this football team, whether that’s a trade or whatever it is. So, we’re open to whatever it is if it’s going to help the team. Those calls are really important, too, in terms of the trades. What you really want is to get a feel for going into the draft knowing who’s aggressive and who actually wants to come up or who’s looking to move down. You want to get a feel for those. They don’t really materialize until the actual draft because it depends on what’s there. That’s how those calls go.”
Cousins’ name has gained traction considering that Aaron Rodgers still hasn’t made a final decision about his future. For that reason, the only big name currently available, although it would require a trade, is the Falcons’ quarterback, who is currently the backup to Michael Penix Jr.
What team did Kirk Cousins get traded to?
Kirk Cousins still hasn’t been traded to any team, but Fontenot’s statements have sparked rumors that a move could happen before or during the draft so the Falcons can gain capital in the first round.
The Steelers have indicated that they want four quarterbacks on their roster, so if Aaron Rodgers turns them down, Cousins is an option. As for the Vikings, the team needs a reliable backup in case J.J. McCarthy isn’t fully recovered from his injury, although that path seems very unlikely.
Another very attractive alternative is the Browns, who need a franchise quarterback after the failure of Deshaun Watson. Although it’s unlikely they would give up the No. 2 pick in the first round, the No. 33 pick that kicks off the second round could be the ideal return for Atlanta.