The Atlanta Falcons are in the news again as the NFL offseason heats up, this time because of a rumored trade condition involving veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. The Wichita Eagle said that the Falcons had set a high price tag of $45 million on any possible Cousins trade, which has caused several leaguers to take notice.
Cousins was viewed as the Falcons’ solution to years of unpredictability under center when he inked a four-year contract worth up to $180 million with Atlanta earlier this offseason. But according to recent rumors, Atlanta might be willing to move on—under very specific conditions.
Although the organization has not yet formally confirmed any trade intentions, a $45 million trade condition most likely refers to a mix of guaranteed money, cap relief, or draft capital compensation. Nevertheless, the leak suggests Atlanta is strategically using Cousins’ market value, either to test the waters with quarterback-needy teams or as leverage before the NFL Draft.
Atlanta leaned heavily on the defensive side of the ball in Pro Football Network’s most recent seven-round mock draft, which helped to clarify the Falcons’ future focus. According to the mock draft, the Falcons will select a disruptive pass rusher with their eighth overall pick, which is a need following years of uneven pressure off the edge.
Following that, PFN expects Atlanta will continue to build out its defense with picks at linebacker, safety, and cornerback—potentially foreshadowing head coach Raheem Morris’ plan to construct a new defensive identity. Morris, famed for his defensive ability, appears to be pushing the organization toward a more balanced and tough form of football.
This decision also reflects a broader strategic pivot by the Falcons’ front staff. Atlanta appears determined to put together a tough, quick, and adaptable defense that can contend with the NFC’s best after years of offensive-focused drafting and free agency acquisitions.
Although Cousins’ future will probably remain a mystery, the Falcons’ selection approach provides insight into their long-term goals. Whether Cousins remains the cornerstone of that plan—
or an expensive trade chip—that is yet to be determined.
There is no doubt that as the Falcons embark on a new chapter in Atlanta football history, they are drawing a line in the sand both monetarily and ideologically.
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