Falcons QB Cousins Skips OTAs Amid Trade Rumors

Kirk Cousins, the Atlanta Falcons' quarterback signed to a $180 million contract, was absent from the first day of voluntary OTAs amid rumors of a trade or release request. After losing the starting job to Michael Penix Jr., Cousins has reportedly asked to be released in hopes of starting elsewhere, but the Falcons are committed to keeping Penix as starter and are prepared to retain Cousins as a backup due to his guaranteed money. Head coach Raheem Morris confirmed Cousins' absence, linking it to ongoing trade discussions and business considerations. Any trade would require Cousins' approval because of his no-trade clause, and acquiring teams would need to absorb significant guaranteed salary. The Pittsburgh Steelers are rumored as a possible destination if quarterback situations change, while other teams remain speculative. Cousins' absence from OTAs is seen as a leverage attempt, and other key Falcons players, including Kyle Pitts and Kaleb McGary, also missed the voluntary session.