The Atlanta Falcons appear set to part ways with Kirk Cousins, despite signing him to a $180 million deal less than a year ago. Michael Penix Jr., the ninth overall pick, is now stepping into the starting quarterback role, prompting the team to explore trade options for Cousins. Among the potential landing spots, the New York Giants emerge as a logical choice. Here’s why a trade could benefit both teams.
Why the Falcons Are Moving on From Cousins
Kirk Cousins struggled to regain his elite form in 2024 after suffering a season-ending Achilles tear in 2023. His performance significantly declined, as evidenced by a 72.3 Pro Football Focus (PFF) passing grade the lowest since 2017—and a ranking of 22nd among 44 qualifying quarterbacks. Additionally, his 4.6% turnover-worthy play rate was the seventh-highest in the league.
With Cousins’ struggles and the rise of rookie Michael Penix Jr., Atlanta is ready to move forward. However, Cousins’ $27.5 million guaranteed salary for 2025 poses a challenge in securing a trade partner. To make a deal happen, the Falcons might need to absorb a portion of his contract, similar to how the Broncos handled Russell Wilson’s deal.
Why the Giants Could Be Interested
The Giants enter 2025 without a quarterback under contract, prompting them to actively explore free agency and trade opportunities. With limited quarterback talent expected in the 2025 NFL Draft, they face the challenge of potentially missing out on top prospects by the time they pick at third overall.
The New York Giants Need Shedeur Sanders to be Elite
Rather than gambling on a rookie in a weaker quarterback class, New York might prioritize acquiring a veteran with extensive starting experience. Despite an underwhelming 2024 season, Cousins provides stability and leadership at a reasonable trade cost. His age and recent struggles could make him available for a mid-round draft pick, offering the Giants an affordable solution.
Proposed Trade
New York Giants Receive: Quarterback Kirk Cousins
Atlanta Falcons Receive: 2025 Fourth-round pick, Cornerback Cor’Dale Flott
This trade provides mutual benefits for both teams. The Giants acquire a seasoned quarterback to lead their offense, while the Falcons strengthen their defense and secure additional draft picks.
Cor’Dale Flott, who started in 10-of-14 games during the 2024 season, broke up seven passes, intercepted one, and held opposing quarterbacks to an 89 passer rating. Entering the final year of his rookie contract, Flott has the potential to bolster Atlanta’s secondary, which ranked 22nd against the pass last season. Pairing him with A.J. Terrell Jr. could create a strong cornerback duo for the Falcons.
Atlanta’s Perspective
Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot expressed confidence in retaining Cousins as a backup, though this stance may be a tactical approach to maximize leverage in trade discussions. Covering a portion of Cousins’ contract would allow Atlanta to offload him without taking on excessive cap costs, while simultaneously addressing their defensive shortcomings.
Atlanta has taken similar steps before. In 2022, the team traded Matt Ryan to the Colts for a third-round pick when Ryan was the same age Cousins is now. While Ryan’s numbers at the time surpassed Cousins’ 2024 stats, the proposed deal reflects those differences alongside today’s market dynamics.
Michael Penix Jr. Will Be the 2025 NFL MVP
For the Falcons, dealing Kirk Cousins would signal the beginning of the Michael Penix Jr. era and fortify their defense. Meanwhile, the Giants would gain a stable, experienced quarterback without giving up major assets. With both teams addressing critical needs, this trade seems logical for all parties involved.
Even if the Falcons decide against a trade, Cousins’ future in Atlanta remains uncertain, making it crucial for the Giants to monitor his availability.
