Report on Kirk Cousins’ future could mean Browns options in NFL free agency are limited

The Cleveland Browns must address the quarterback situation this offseason. Thankfully, whether it is through insurance or through voiding his contract, the newest Deshaun Watson injury could provide a strong opportunity for the team in NFL free agency.

Whether it is with the second pick, where the Browns are reportedly set on taking a quarterback, through taking advantage of Deion Sanders-related leverage or through other draft and free agency options, Cleveland’s QB room should look different in 2025.

Many have assumed that Kirk Cousins will be one of those new Browns quarterbacks next season. Cousins could have the flexibility to make a free agent decision about things other than money but he must first hit the market.

According to a report tied to the Atlanta Falcons, Cousins being released is not a foregone conclusion:

With Michael Penix Jr. on a rookie contract, the Falcons can afford to keep Cousins around but the cost to do so will be $10 million more than what it will take to set him free:

As noted above, Atlanta is smart to try to work out a trade to get something in return for their prize free agent signing this offseason. Teams could be tempted, worried that Cousins might sign with another team.

Given Cleveland’s salary cap space and built-in recruiting advantages (history with HC Kevin Stefanski, returning to the wide-zone scheme), it seems unlikely they would be the team to make a trade. However, if the Falcons are bluffing but find a trade partner or actually decide to hang on to Cousins, the Browns will have one less option at QB, perhaps their top option.

As of now, it makes most sense for Atlanta to feign like they are going to keep Cousins and hope to find a trade partner. In the end, as noted in Adam Schefter’s tweet above, owners are not big on dishing out $10 million more just to keep a backup around.