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NFL Shockwave: Falcons’ Kirk Cousins Linked to Trade Proposal That Could Send Him to Division Rival Saints
Atlanta, GA – August 23, 2025
In a move that could reshape the NFC South, reports have emerged linking Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins to a surprising trade proposal that would send him to a bitter division rival — the New Orleans Saints.
A Shocking Trade Scenario Emerges
According to recent reports from league insiders and analysts, the Falcons may be open to dealing Cousins, just months after signing him to a four-year, $180 million contract with $100 million guaranteed. The quarterback, who missed the team’s OTAs earlier this offseason, is now the subject of multiple trade rumors, with the Saints being a particularly surprising destination.
The reported trade proposal suggests that the Falcons could send Cousins to the Saints in exchange for young quarterback Spencer Rattler, a 2026 fifth-round pick, and a 2027 sixth-rounder. While the deal is purely speculative at this point, the idea of Cousins joining a divisional opponent has stirred intense debate across the league.
Why the Falcons Might Consider the Move
The Falcons’ front office reportedly sees potential financial and strategic benefits from trading Cousins. Offloading his contract could result in approximately $27.5 million in cap savings. With rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy waiting in the wings, Atlanta may be positioning itself for a youth movement under center.
Though the Falcons would incur a $12.5 million dead cap hit, the long-term savings and opportunity to accelerate McCarthy’s development could outweigh the short-term loss.
Some early estimates and misinterpretations of Cousins’ contract led to speculation that the Falcons could “make $100 million” from a trade — however, that figure reflects guaranteed money from his deal, not trade profits.
Saints’ Perspective: A Win-Now Move
For the New Orleans Saints, the acquisition of a proven veteran like Cousins could provide immediate stability at quarterback. With rookie Tyler Shough still developing and Derek Carr struggling with injuries and inconsistency, Cousins would be a massive upgrade to lead a roster that still believes it can compete for a playoff spot.
Pairing Cousins with dynamic offensive weapons like Chris Olave, Alvin Kamara, and Taysom Hill could instantly elevate the Saints’ offensive production.
Unlikely, but Not Impossible
Despite the intrigue, a trade between two division rivals remains highly unlikely. Intra-division trades are rare in the NFL, especially when it involves a marquee quarterback. However, if the Falcons feel Cousins is no longer part of their long-term vision, and the Saints offer enough in return, anything is possible.
What’s Next?
With the regular season just weeks away, both teams are facing major decisions. The Falcons must decide whether to commit to their youth movement or continue with Cousins under center. The Saints, meanwhile, could be eyeing a bold move to regain control of the division.
If this trade does go through, it could become one of the most seismic transactions in recent NFL history.
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