NFL Rumors: Trade Talks For Falcons' Kirk Cousins Heating Up With One Team

May 26, 2025 ,
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins prepares to throw the ball during 2024 game.

With Aaron Rodgers still undecided about signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the franchise is quietly preparing a backup plan—and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is at the center of it. 

According to multiple reports, including ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Cousins remains "at least on the Steelers’ radar" in case negotiations with Rodgers fall through.

Cousins, who lost his starting job late in the 2024 season to rookie Michael Penix Jr., carries a hefty $37.5 million guarantee. But the Falcons have reportedly been more open to trade discussions post-draft, especially with June 1 approaching. After that date, Atlanta could save up to $27.5 million in cap space by moving Cousins. Fowler noted, "If [Atlanta] were willing to take on $7 or $8 million, a deal would be done by now."

Why Cousins Fits Pittsburgh’s Plans

The 36-year-old Cousins has experience, production, and name recognition—albeit coming off a year that included a league-high 16 interceptions. Still, with Rodgers’ future in question, Cousins could offer stability to a Steelers QB room currently headlined by Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson, and rookie Will Howard.

Pittsburgh would provide Cousins with a fresh opportunity to start, and the Falcons’ willingness to move off the contract—plus their clear commitment to Penix—makes this a possible win-win. As Peter Schrager put it, “If there is a seat on the carousel that’s open, it is Pittsburgh.”

Atlanta’s Leverage May Be Dwindling

Cousins has a full no-trade clause, but insiders like Schrager and Fowler believe Pittsburgh checks enough boxes: starting opportunity, strong locker room, and coaching ties between Mike Tomlin and Raheem Morris. If Rodgers delays his decision much longer, expect Pittsburgh to accelerate talks with Atlanta as they gear up for minicamp and training camp this summer.

Photo Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images 

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