Kirk Cousins is rumored to be waiting for a trade request. Some of the potential landing spots for him are the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Minnesota Vikings. However, the latest report indicates that the Cleveland Browns are currently talking with the Falcons' quarterback.

Just last week, NFL fans saw several posts on X where Cousins was spotted chilling in a Cleveland Chipotle store. The rumors intensified when NFL insider Diana Russini said that negotiations between the Browns and the Atlanta Falcons are in progress.

Kirk Cousins Linked to Browns in Latest Rumor

NFL Trade Rumors: Are Cleveland Browns Pursuing Kirk Cousins After NFL Trade Rumors: Are Cleveland Browns Pursuing Kirk Cousins After
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Cousins' connection to the Browns of Cleveland has been a talking point for some time now. Following a recent trip to the city for what was termed as a "non-football" purpose, most insiders are looking to a possible deal involving the veteran quarterback, Brownswire reports.

Russini, who is renowned for her precise reporting, indicated that although the discussions are in the nascent stages, there is sufficient talk to entertain the idea of a trade between the Browns and the Atlanta Falcons.

The relationship between Cousins and Cleveland is more understandable when you factor in his past with Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski. Stefanski was the Minnesota Vikings' offensive coordinator who coached Cousins in 2019, a connection that could turn out to be the deciding factor for a profitable relationship. Russini says it "makes a lot of sense" for the Browns to chase a quarterback they already know so well.

The Browns' Quarterback Situation and Draft Plans

Cleveland's quarterback corps is presently headed by Kenny Pickett, but the team's position is hardly secure. With Pickett alone being healthy and available to go for the coming 2025 season, the Browns are actively seeking to improve at the position.

General manager Andrew Berry has openly declared that the team intends to "get younger" at quarterback, with the 2025 NFL draft being a turning point.

But the thought of acquiring a veteran such as Cousins via trade is still definitely out there. Though the Browns are sure to be looking toward drafting a quarterback, especially using the No. 2 overall selection, to acquire Cousins as a starter or veteran competitor still appeals to Cleveland.

Cousins' No-Trade Clause

One of the largest obstacles in this hypothetical trade situation is Cousins' no-trade clause. The 34-year-old quarterback has been adamant about his position: he will not release the clause unless he is certain that the team he's signing with will not draft a quarterback with an early pick. This conclusion results from the unfortunate circumstance Cousins experienced last year when the Minnesota Vikings' draft plans put him in a compromised position.

If the Cleveland Browns avoid drafting a quarterback with their No. 2 overall pick to take another player, this would provide the ideal situation for Cousins to waive his no-trade clause and sign with the team. Such a move would provide Cousins with the guarantee he requires that he is not going to be replaced by a rookie quarterback anytime soon.

What a Kirk Cousins Trade Could Look Like for the Browns

If the Browns land a trade for Kirk Cousins, it will turn the tide for their quarterback plan. With his established credentials, including more than 28,000 career passing yards, Cousins would add a much-needed veteran under center. His game-management skills and ability to deliver consistent outcomes could make the Browns a Cinderella contender in the AFC North overnight.

Cousins' familiarity with Stefanski's offensive system would also help streamline his integration into the team. This could be a solid foundation for Cleveland's playoff aspirations. At the same time, Cousins can mentor any young guns who will be Brown members soon.