Much was made of the Atlanta Falcons’ decision to draft quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft—just weeks after signing Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract. While neither move was questionable on its own, the commitment to both quarterbacks raised plenty of eyebrows.
Had the plan worked, it might have been hailed as visionary. But less than a year later, it unraveled. After 14 games, the Falcons benched Cousins in favor of Penix, leaving the veteran’s future in doubt.
Kirk Cousins’ Contract Situation
Cousins has three years left on his deal, with $117.5 million remaining in potential earnings. Broken down, though, Cousins will earn a fully guaranteed $27.5 million in 2025, with a further $10 million guaranteed in 2026. The quarterback has $10 million roster bonuses that come into effect on the fifth day of the 2026 and 2027 league years.
In theory, if Cousins were to be cut by the Falcons this year, he would walk away with just $37.5 million of that potential $117.5 million, with the option to then sign a new deal elsewhere.
The Falcons, though, would be left with $75 million in dead money, including $37.5 million of his prorated signing bonus, likely meaning that they would trade Cousins for next to nothing.
If a team were to trade for Cousins, it would take on his $27.5 million salary for 2025. That team would then have the option to cut Cousins in 2026, incurring $10 million in dead money (2026 guaranteed salary), but saving significant money against the cap.
That $10 million could also be spread over two years with a post-June 1 designation, softening the blow.
Three Potential Trade Destinations for Cousins
Cousins’ salary makes him an incredibly expensive backup, making him an obvious trade candidate. And, with multiple teams potentially in the market for a starting quarterback, it might not be long before the veteran is on the move again.
From most likely to least, here are three potential landing spots for the four-time Pro Bowler.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ continued links with Aaron Rodgers almost put them second on this list, but they’re the only team known to be actively seeking a starting quarterback. The Steelers are projected to have 12 picks in the 2026 draft (including compensatory picks, which are yet to be confirmed), and wouldn’t have to eat into those too much to make the trade.
It’s clear that the Steelers’ number one target is Rodgers, but the veteran has yet to commit and has stated that retirement remains an option. There have also been suggestions that the four-time league MVP is holding out for another team. If, for whatever reason, things don’t materialize with Rodgers, Cousins could be wearing black and gold come September.
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints have been candidates to add a veteran quarterback ever since it was reported that Derek Carr could miss the season with a shoulder injury. Carr has since retired, leaving the team with untested rookie Tyler Shough in position to lead the team in 2025.
Despite pressure to trade away assets and rebuild due to financial restraints in recent years, the Saints have refused to do so. That has no doubt left veterans like Cam Jordan and Alvin Kamara expecting to compete, which will require a competent quarterback.
Shough may turn out to be a great player for the Saints, but he completed just two seasons as a collegiate starter, one of which was shortened due to COVID-19. If the organization is determined to win in the short term, the chance to take Cousins from their division rivals may prove difficult to turn down.
Minnesota Vikings
In truth, given Cousins’ age (he’ll be 37 at the start of the season), it’s difficult to look beyond the Steelers and the Saints, two teams that need an immediate starter, as likely destinations for Cousins. But the recurring mentions of the Minnesota Vikings regarding the aforementioned Rodgers make them an unlikely Wild Card for their former player’s signature.
Cousins’ hefty salary limits his potential landing spots to teams in immediate need of a starting quarterback—reportedly not including the Vikings. Minnesota is said to be confident in 2024 rookie J.J. McCarthy, despite the fact that he missed his entire first season with a patellar injury.
While the plan appears to be turning the offense over to McCarthy, it’s not out of the question that he may need more time to adjust. Some believe the former Michigan star is ready to shine from day one, while others are more skeptical. Regardless of his talent, there’s reason for caution when a young quarterback is coming off a serious injury.
As for Cousins, his situation remains a curious one. Just a year removed from a $180 million contract, he may find himself without a clear path to a starting job. If no team sees enough value to trade for him, he could remain on the Falcons’ bench indefinitely.