Report: Falcons prefer this four-time Pro Bowler instead of Justin Fields

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 3/4/24

The Chicago Bears have the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and will probably replace Justin Fields. While Atlanta seems like a great landing spot for the Georgia native, the Falcons might have their eye on another quarterback.

"I have been told by multiple sources this week that signing Cousins — not trading for Justin Fields — is the Falcons' top QB solution, assuming Cousins makes it to free agency," wrote ESPN's Dan Graziano.

Graziano added the Vikings and the four-time Pro Bowler are still trying to strike a new deal, but neither party will compromise. Spotrac estimates his market value is a three-year deal worth $39.3M annually, and the Vikings have $41.09M in cap space.

Minnesota also wants to extend star wide receiver Justin Jefferson and re-sign Pro Bowl edge-rusher Danielle Hunter. It wouldn't be a surprise if it lets Cousins test free agency.

The 35-year-old is coming off an Achilles tear. However, it appears he's making a quick recovery. He recently shared two videos to his X, formerly known as Twitter, where he dropped back and tossed passes. Cousins threw 18 TDs and posted the league's seventh-best QBR (63.2) in eight games last season.

Fields, meanwhile, completed 61.4% of his passes for 16 TDs and rushed for 657 yards in 13 games. The Athletic's Jeff Howe reported the Bears could acquire a second- or third-round pick for the 24-year-old, a high asking price for a QB with a 10-28 starting record.

While Fields has some upside, Atlanta might want a proven starter. The Falcons have talented playmakers, such as running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts, who would thrive with the right QB and help the franchise make the playoffs for the first time since 2017.

More must-reads: