As the dust settles after the 2025 NFL Draft, veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins remains on the Atlanta Falcons roster. But not necessarily in their long-term plans.
With first-round pick Michael Penix Jr. poised as the team’s future under center, Cousins’ status has shifted from presumed starter to highly paid backup.
Despite speculation about a potential trade, Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot made it clear during an appearance on SiriusXM’s Mad Dog Radio that the team is in no rush to make a move.
“We just have to be patient there,” Fontenot said. “We’re always open. Not just with Kirk, but really anybody on our roster. I’ve already spoken with six or seven GMs since the draft ended. Everyone’s assessing their rosters, their surplus, their needs.”
Fontenot underscored that the team would only pursue a trade if it clearly benefits the organization.
“If something comes to us with Kirk or any other player that makes sense and it’s going to help this team, then we’re going to be aggressive. But if it doesn’t make sense, we’re not going to force it.”
Following the draft, most potential landing spots for Cousins have dried up. Cleveland already has a crowded quarterback room, Pittsburgh appears to be eyeing Aaron Rodgers while developing sixth-rounder Will Howard and even the Saints added a rookie signal-caller.
Given the lack of open starting jobs, Cousins’ best option may be staying in Atlanta. At least for now. He’s under contract at $27.5 million and with no history of locker room drama. The Falcons seem comfortable keeping him as a veteran presence behind Penix.
Both sides appear to be adopting a wait-and-see approach, knowing that quarterback injuries are almost inevitable. A preseason or early-season injury, like the one that sidelined Aaron Rodgers in Week 1 last year, could suddenly create a market for an experienced starter like Cousins.
