Kirk Cousins is still a Falcon – for now – and he’s showing up for work.
Atlanta expects Cousins to attend its mandatory three-day minicamp starting on Tuesday, according to Dianna Russini of The Athletic.
The veteran quarterback is just one year into his four-year, $180 million contract he signed in 2024, but trade rumors have swirled around him this offseason with second-year QB Michael Penix Jr. firmly in the starter’s role
Because Cousins, 36, is still under contract with the Falcons, he would be fined if he decided not to attend minicamp while awaiting a potential trade.
Cousin had a rough first year in Atlanta. He threw for 3,508 yards as well as 18 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. Due to his lackluster performances, he ended the season on the bench after the Falcons lost four of his last five starts.
While still vying for a playoff spot, the Falcons looked to Penix Jr., their 2024 first-round pick, to take the reins of the offense. He started his first game on Dec. 22 against the Giants, leading Atlanta to a 34-7 victory. Cousins did not play again for the Falcons, who finished 8-9 and missed the playoffs.
In early March, Cousins met with Falcons owner Arthur Blank and made it clear he wants to start in 2025.
Many believed the Falcons would cut Cousins at the end of the season. But that never happened. One reason is that it would cost the Falcons $40 million in dead cap money.
That means the only other way out would be through a trade. The only question is who would be willing to trade for Cousins.
With the Steelers finding their quarterback last week in Aaron Rodgers, the options are limited.
One intriguing trade partner would be Cousins’ former team, the Vikings.
With J.J. McCarthy coming off knee surgery, the Vikings might want a proven backup quarterback in case the second-year man is not ready on Day 1.
Sam Howell and Brett Rypien are currently McCarthy’s backups.