Kirk Cousins' future with the Atlanta Falcons appears uncertain as the veteran quarterback is plotting his next move. After having his $10 million guarantee locked in earlier this month, Cousins is in no rush to decide.

Instead, he's waiting until after the 2025 NFL Draft to facilitate a trade, aiming to land with a team where he can secure a starting position without competition from a rookie.

Why Kirk Cousins Is Waiting to Request a Trade

NFL Trade Rumors: Is Kirk Cousins Waiting to Request a NFL Trade Rumors: Is Kirk Cousins Waiting to Request a
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Cousins, 37, is taking a calculated approach after his experience last season, according to Sports Illustrated. In 2024, Cousins signed a massive four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons, only for the team to draft Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick a month later. Penix quickly took over the starting role, leaving Cousins on the sidelines.

This time, Cousins wants to avoid a similar situation. Cousins prefers to wait until after the 2025 NFL Draft to assess which teams are still in need of a veteran quarterback. He aims to join a team where he can step in as the immediate starter without the looming threat of being replaced by a young prospect.

Potential Landing Spots for Kirk Cousins

Several teams could be in the market for a proven quarterback after the draft. The Tennessee Titans hold the No. 1 overall pick and are likely to select a quarterback, eliminating them as a destination. The Cleveland Browns and New York Giants, picking at No. 2 and No. 3 respectively, are also expected to target young signal-callers.

However, other teams could emerge as viable options for Cousins including the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to CBS Sports. If the Steelers' pursuit of Aaron Rodgers falls through, Cousins could be a strong fallback option. Pittsburgh is looking for stability at quarterback after inconsistent play in recent years.

Another team in the mix is the Minnesota Vikings. Although the Vikings have invested in J.J. McCarthy as their future quarterback, a reunion with Cousins could be possible if things don't go as planned in 2025.

Financial Hurdles in Moving Cousins

Cousins still has three years left on his lucrative deal, which carries a remaining $155 million commitment. His contract includes a guaranteed $27.5 million salary for 2025 and a prorated signing bonus of $12.5 million, bringing his cap number to a hefty $40 million.

The Falcons, however, have a potential out after the 2026 season, giving them some flexibility in managing Cousins' future. Despite his high price tag, teams needing an experienced quarterback could be willing to absorb the financial burden to secure a proven starter.

Cousins' Declining Performance is Also an Issue

Cousins' recent performance raises some concerns for potential suitors. In his final five starts with the Falcons last season, he struggled, completing just 62.7% of his passes with one touchdown and nine interceptions. The Falcons went 1-4 in those games, and Cousins' 16 interceptions tied for the league lead.

Overall, Cousins threw for 3,508 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions in 2024, posting an 88.6 passer rating — a significant drop from his usual production.