Falcons Looking To Trade Cousins, But At What Cost?

Dec 22, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) prepares for a game against the New York Giants at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Falcons might be willing to move quarterback Kirk Cousins — but they aren’t giving him away for cheap.

According to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter shared by SleeperNFL, the Falcons have had discussions with teams about Cousins and are asking for “a lot in return” if they were to make a deal. On top of that, Atlanta has reportedly asked any potential trade partner to take on $20 million of Cousins’ remaining $45 million guaranteed.

It’s a significant ask, and it speaks to two things: the Falcons’ desire to maximize value and the financial weight attached to Cousins’ contract.

Cousins signed a hefty deal with Atlanta in free agency, signaling the team’s commitment to short-term contention. But if trade talks are heating up, it could mean the Falcons are rethinking their timeline—or at least open to a major roster shakeup if the price is right.

Moving Cousins would create ripple effects across the league, particularly for teams still searching for quarterback answers. While the 35-year-old remains a capable starter when healthy, his large contract and recovery from a major Achilles injury last season add layers of complexity to any potential deal.

For now, Cousins remains in Atlanta. But the fact that discussions are even happening suggests the Falcons could be one of the bigger wild cards to watch as the offseason continues.