The Atlanta Falcons are moving forward with Michael Penix Jr. as their starting quarterback for the 2025 season, creating significant uncertainty regarding Kirk Cousins’ future with the team. While Atlanta hasn’t made a final decision, there are potential suitors already being linked to the veteran quarterback.
Atlanta could conceivably keep Cousins as a top backup option behind Penix. However, the relationship with the four-time Pro Bowl selection is fractured and the 36-year-old isn’t interested in being a backup next season. Trading Cousins is also an option, but NFL teams know they can just wait until he is released just as the Denver Broncos did with Russell Wilson last year.
Related: Best landing spots for top NFL free agent QBs, including Kirk Cousins
- Kirk Cousins stats (ESPN): 3,506 passing yards, 18-16 TD-INT, 66.9% completion rate, 7.7 yards per attempt, 88.6 QB rating
Once he is released, the Falcons will be on the hook for Cousins’ $27.5 salary in 2024. Whatever amount he signs for with his next team will be offset by the total salary Atlanta is paying him. As a result, he’ll likely be one of the cheapest starting quarterbacks in the NFL next season, which has led many to connect him to the Cleveland Browns.
Cousins has also been connected to the Los Angeles Rams, who could trade Matthew Stafford if the veteran quarterback doesn’t restructure his contract. There’s also another landing spot, specifically mentioned by ESPN’s senior NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler on SportsCenter.
Also Read: New York Giants a ‘sleeper’ for veteran QB this offseason
“You know, the New York Jets, once upon a time, wanted to sign Cousins. He’s going to be one of the best options.
Jeremy Fowler on the New York Jets as a potential landing spot for Kirk Cousins
It would be a viable opportunity for Cousins to prove himself again. New York’s defense should have a one-year turnaround under head coach Aaron Glenn. Furthermore, a Jets offense with Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall would provide Cousins with a strong supporting cast, at least better than the Browns could offer.
Related: New York Jets insider addresses Garrett Wilson trade rumors
- Kirk Cousins contract (Spotrac): $40 million cap hit in 2025
However, Cousins just went through the experience in Atlanta of having a first-year offensive coordinator and play-caller (Zac Robinson). He would have to deal with that again after former Detroit Lions passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand was brought over with Glenn to serve as the Jets offensive coordinator.
