As the 2025 NFL Draft unfolds, the spotlight is once again on Kirk Cousins. The veteran quarterback, who has switched teams over the years, now finds himself amidst trade rumors and speculation about where he might land for the upcoming season. Will Cousins be the answer for a franchise in need of stability? Or is he set to become a bridge to the next generation?

The Latest Trade Rumors Surrounding Kirk Cousins

Kirk Cousins left the Minnesota Vikings last offseason after contract talks fell apart. Now, with the draft underway, buzz around a possible trade is building. According to recent reports, both the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cleveland Browns are interested in striking a deal for Cousins. Yahoo Sports highlights that the Browns and Steelers are the most likely destinations, but even a surprise reunion with the Vikings has not been ruled out.

Teams like Pittsburgh are already exploring veterans as quarterback options, especially with uncertainties around Aaron Rodgers' status. Cleveland, facing an injury to DeShaun Watson, is also in the mix. Both teams see Cousins as a solid short-term solution who can provide experience and leadership under center while younger quarterbacks develop.

How Did We Get Here? A Look at Cousins’ Recent Performance

Last season with Atlanta was tough for Kirk Cousins. He threw 18 touchdowns but also led the league with 16 interceptions in just 14 games. As a result, the Falcons gave rookie Michael Penix Jr. the starting spot for 2025. Questions remain about Cousins’ ability to bounce back, especially as he continues to recover from an Achilles injury. Still, Yahoo Sports explains that his decline may partly be due to that injury. If he returns to full health, there’s hope he could stabilize a team in need of a veteran presence.

The Salary Question and Potential Complications

One of the biggest challenges in moving Kirk Cousins is his contract. Last summer, the Atlanta Falcons committed $100 million to Cousins, only to use a high draft pick on Penix Jr. soon after. General manager Terry Fontenot has stated that the Falcons haven’t finalized how they would split Cousins’ salary in a trade. This uncertainty could be a hurdle for any interested team, especially if they want to avoid a large cap hit.

What Happens Next? Teams Weigh Their Options

The fate of Kirk Cousins likely hangs on how the Steelers and Browns address quarterback in the draft. If either team misses out on a coveted rookie, Cousins could be their top target as a temporary starter and mentor. At this stage in his career, Cousins would be best suited for a team looking for immediate stability while searching for a long-term franchise quarterback.

The 2025 draft is full of possibilities. The Steelers, for example, passed on drafting a quarterback in the first round, instead boosting their defense with Derrick Harmon (ESPN coverage). This decision leaves their quarterback depth chart wide open for a veteran like Cousins.

Conclusion: What Will Kirk Cousins Do in 2025?

Despite mixed performances and contract challenges, Kirk Cousins remains one of the most experienced quarterbacks on the market. The teams considering a trade know they may not be acquiring a long-term solution, but a steady hand to guide them through a transitional year. As the draft progresses and rosters take shape, all eyes are on Cousins and where his next chapter will unfold.

Stay tuned for updates as the 2025 NFL offseason drama continues to revolve around one of football’s most talked-about signal-callers.