Falcons $180 million first year blunder could turn into premium draft pick

The Atlanta Falcons face several key questions heading into the season, but so far, there seems to be little direction in how they plan to answer them. One of the biggest decisions involves veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins and where he will start the season. Cousins’ name has already been floated in multiple trade scenarios and speculative trade ideas.

Cousins was initially signed to be Atlanta’s starting quarterback for the foreseeable future. However, following a midseason meltdown, the Falcons turned to their first-round draft pick, Michael Penix Jr. Penix stepped in and delivered what the team was looking for—an opportunity to win games.

Meanwhile, divisional rival New Orleans recently lost starting quarterback Derek Carr to retirement. Head coach Kellen Moore acknowledged that adding a veteran is still on the table, making Cousins a potential trade candidate for the Saints.

There’s also been speculation that Cousins could be shipped to the AFC, where a few quarterback rooms may be in need of reinforcements. The Indianapolis Colts have Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones, but if the coaching staff isn't satisfied with their performances, Cousins could find himself in Indy.

“Indy could turn to Cousins if the Daniel Jones/Anthony Richardson QB competition goes awry,” Kristopher Knox wrote.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport recently emphasized that Cousins will remain a trade option anytime a quarterback injury occurs during the season.

Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp

“Every time a quarterback gets hurt, the Falcons are going to be like, ‘Hello, look at the guy we got,’” Rapoport said. “He suggested that Atlanta could even land a premium draft pick by trading Cousins during the season if a team becomes desperate enough.”

The Falcons have already addressed key needs along the defensive line. Now, the biggest remaining question is what they’ll decide to do with Cousins as the season approaches. For now, he remains on the roster—but that could quickly change if a starting quarterback elsewhere goes down, opening the door for Atlanta to land a significant draft pick in return.