Dec 8, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) enters the field before the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

Kirk Cousins To Stay With Atlanta Falcons, Says Insider

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Ernest Leo Hernandez | Last updated Apr 2, 2025 2:07 PM ET

The NFL trade rumors are picking up, and Kirk Cousins seems to be the center of attraction of late. Russell Wilson is gone to the New York Giants, and Cousins’ name is picked up. Despite rumors swirling around the star, it’s left up to Cousins to make the final decision.

The quarterback has a no-trade clause with the Atlanta Falcons, and it’s left up to him whether he wants to be traded or not. Yet, if a great deal comes his way, Cousins will probably consider leaving Atlanta.

NFL insider Tom Pelissero has an interesting take on Cousins’ rumors. Pelissero believes that Penix’s future with the team will also play a crucial role in trading Cousins.

“Part of the argument for trading Kirk Cousins is the perpetual questions for the entire offseason when you want the focus on Michael Penix, building an offense around him, his development, what he’s going to do for the team. And instead, every day, it’s, ‘Is there any update on Kirk?’ And then if you get into the season and Michael Penix has a bad day or bad series, it’s ‘What about Kirk?’ Those are all part of the broader conversation here,” Pelissero said.

From @GMFB: A discussion of the topics that came out of the NFC coaches availability at the Annual Meeting. pic.twitter.com/wbRZNzOTWx

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 1, 2025

Cousins wants to play, he wants to be in control and lead the team. The rumors are that QB would consider joining a team that has no premium rookie playing his position. Based on Pelissero’s stance, it’s probably hard for Cousins to part ways with the Falcons at this point.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the favorite landing spots for Cousins. However, that depends on Jaxson Dart. Apart from the Steelers, the New York Giants are considered as a favorite team. Again, Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders might be a hurdle for Cousins.

Atlanta Falcons Coach Raheem Morris To Keep Kirk Cousins As A Backup Quarterback

It’s clear that the Falcons want to keep Cousins as a backup quarterback. Coach Raheem Morris mentioned that they would not hold him back, but they want him as a backup quarterback for Penix.

“We still feel very strongly about Kirk being our backup quarterback. We still feel very strongly about the human. Obviously, it’s a business. … We won’t hold him back if the opportunity presents itself. He’s made it clear he’d like to be a starter,” Raheem Morris said.

Kirk Cousins’ situation is uncertain for now. But as many predict, he would part ways with the Falcons when the right opportunity presents itself. Cousins is a veteran QB and many teams would consider using his skills. The NFL star can be a great guidance to younger players.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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