Steelers, Vikings Pursue Kirk Cousins Trade Amid Atlanta Shift

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is at the center of trade rumors as the team appears ready to move forward with rookie Michael Penix Jr. and newly signed backup Easton Stick. Both the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings have emerged as potential destinations, but negotiations are complicated by the Falcons' demand that a trade partner absorb a significant portion of Cousins' remaining guaranteed salary—up to $20 million, though teams reportedly prefer closer to $10 million. The Vikings, Cousins' former team, are reportedly interested due in part to player support in the locker room, but there are doubts about whether such a reunion makes sense given the team's current quarterback situation and past fan reactions. Meanwhile, the Steelers are seen as a logical fit for Cousins, who wants to start and could provide veteran stability without the uncertainty surrounding Aaron Rodgers. With the NFL draft approaching and a weak quarterback class, a resolution to Cousins' future may not come until after draft weekend. The outcome will likely depend on whether Atlanta lowers its financial demands and which team is most willing to meet them.