Browns Trade Pitch Brings in $180 Million Passer to Solve QB Issues

The Cleveland Browns have yet again been linked to a trade for Atlanta Falcons veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins.

The potential move has resurfaced as the Browns continue to face uncertainty at the quarterback position heading into the 2025 season. The team currently carries five signal-callers on the roster — Deshaun Watson, Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel — none of whom has been named the definitive starter. That lack of clarity is raising questions about the Browns’ direction, especially with a roster that still boasts veteran talent.

Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski named the Browns as one of four potential suitors for Cousins.

“If the Cleveland Browns are serious about winning this season, a Cousins acquisition remains on the table. Right now, the organization doesn’t have a legitimate plan at the quarterback position. The Browns have four signal-callers on the roster with the potential to start, which means they don’t have a legitimate starter in the mix,” Sobleski said. “A healthy Cousins returning to Kevin Stefanski’s system, where he experienced his best seasons, can settle a lot for the Browns and actually make them competitive, considering the state roster with veterans such as Myles Garrett, Joel Bitonio, Wyatt Teller, David Njoku, etc.”

Kirk Cousins Felt ‘Misled’ by Falcons

Legitimate questions remain about whether the Browns are truly focused on contending this season or positioning themselves for the future. With two first-round picks in next year’s draft, Cleveland is well-equipped to target a potential franchise quarterback.

On the other side of the trade, the Falcons have been adamant that they would be alright keeping Cousins as a high-priced backup to Michael Penix Jr.. That may be a bluff to increase Cousins’ trade value as the Falcons look to move the veteran at some point before the start of the season.

Cousins recently revealed on the first episode of Netflix’s “Quarterback” that he felt misled after signing with Atlanta last offseason.

“Certainly, if I had the information around free agency, it certainly would’ve affected my decision,” Cousins said. “I had no reason to leave Minnesota with how much we loved it there if both teams are going to be drafting a quarterback high. But I’ve also learned in 12 years in this league that you’re not entitled to anything. It’s all about being able to earn your spot and prove yourself.”

Browns Have Yet to Unveil Quarterback Depth Chart

The Browns have made it clear that the starting quarterback job is up for grabs, with all four contenders — Flacco, Pickett, Gabriel, and Sanders — still in the mix. Flacco and Pickett are viewed as the early favorites for Week 1 due to their experience, but the competition remains open.

Stefanski offered little insight during minicamp, declining to reveal any early pecking order or hint at how the depth chart might shake out.

“We’re so far away from that type of thought process,” Stefanski said during minicamp. “Honestly, we’re in our installation phase. It’s the offseason; it’s OTAs. So we’re going to keep the focus there. Once you get into training camp, of course you’re getting ready to play games and ultimately getting ready for playing the season. But right now that’s not our focus.”

Browns training camp kicks off later this month and should provide more clarity.