As the 2025 NFL free agency period heats up, the Atlanta Falcons are strategically holding onto quarterback Kirk Cousins, potentially eyeing a trade with the Cleveland Browns or Pittsburgh Steelers. With limited veteran quarterback options available, Atlanta is in no rush to release Cousins, knowing his $27.5 million guaranteed 2025 salary puts them in a strong negotiating position.
Falcons’ Strategy: Holding Leverage in QB Market
Despite speculation that Cousins might be cut before Sunday’s $10 million roster bonus deadline, league sources confirm the Falcons are playing the market. Their reasoning?
- Cleveland Browns: With head coach Kevin Stefanski’s familiarity with Cousins, the Browns could view him as a cost-effective QB option if released.
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Some within the Steelers’ coaching staff are reportedly hesitant about committing to Russell Wilson in 2025. If Aaron Rodgers opts for the New York Giants or retires, Pittsburgh may consider Cousins as a fallback option.
While Cousins prefers to start, the Falcons aren’t obligated to release him just to benefit another franchise. Instead, they’re signaling that a trade offer—likely from Cleveland—is their preferred exit strategy.
Browns Explore Other QB Options
The Browns are weighing their choices, scheduling a visit with Russell Wilson and keeping Joe Flacco in the conversation. However, if a trade deal with Atlanta emerges, Cousins could become Cleveland’s top target.
Carolina Panthers Likely to Sideline RB Jonathon Brooks for 2025 Season
In injury-related news, Carolina Panthers RB Jonathon Brooks may miss the entire 2025 season after suffering his second ACL tear in the same knee. The Panthers’ signing of RB Rico Dowdle suggests they are prioritizing a cautious, long-term recovery plan for Brooks, potentially setting him up for a 2026 return.
Concerns Over Brooks’ Development
- Brooks, drafted 46th overall, has had limited playing time due to injuries, raising questions about his future performance potential.
- With minimal high-level football experience over the past four years, the Panthers are taking no risks in his recovery process.
While Carolina remains hopeful, the long-term impact of Brooks’ injuries leaves his NFL ceiling uncertain.
NFL Draft Buzz: RB Quinshon Judkins Rising After Standout Combine Performance
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Ohio State running back Quinshon Judkins is generating first-round buzz. With teams favoring young RB talent, free-agent backs are struggling to secure long-term deals.
Key Takeaways from Judkins’ Scouting Combine Performance
- 40-yard dash: 4.48 seconds at 6’0″, 221 lbs
- Explosiveness: 38.5-inch vertical, 11-foot broad jump
- Mentality: Displayed competitiveness by participating in full workouts despite being advised to wait for Ohio State’s pro day
NFL teams are drawing comparisons to his dominant freshman season at Ole Miss, and there’s growing speculation he could sneak into the first round—with the Pittsburgh Steelers among the potential suitors.
With teams prioritizing the 2025 rookie RB class, expect Judkins, Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, and North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton to be highly sought-after picks in April’s draft.
