The Chicago Bears hold the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and are likely to replace Justin Fields. While Atlanta appears to be an attractive destination for the Georgia native, the Falcons may be considering another quarterback option.
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, multiple sources indicate that signing Kirk Cousins, rather than trading for Justin Fields, is the Falcons’ preferred solution at quarterback, provided Cousins becomes a free agent. Graziano notes that negotiations between Cousins and the Minnesota Vikings have stalled, with neither side willing to compromise. Spotrac estimates Cousins’ market value at approximately $39.3 million annually for a three-year deal, while the Vikings currently have around $41.09 million in available cap space.
In addition to the quarterback situation, the Vikings also have priorities in extending star wide receiver Justin Jefferson and re-signing Pro Bowl edge-rusher Danielle Hunter. Given these factors, it is plausible that the Vikings may allow Cousins to explore free agency.
The 35-year-old athlete is recuperating from an Achilles tear, yet signs indicate a swift recovery. He recently posted two videos on his social media platform, formerly known as Twitter, showcasing his progress as he dropped back and threw passes. Despite his injury, Cousins demonstrated impressive performance last season, throwing 18 touchdowns and achieving the league’s seventh-best QBR (63.2) in eight games.
Fields, on the other hand, completed 61.4 percent of his passes for 16 touchdowns and amassed 657 rushing yards across 13 games. According to The Athletic’s Jeff Howe, the Bears could potentially fetch a second- or third-round pick for the 24-year-old quarterback, despite his relatively high asking price given his 10-28 starting record.
While Fields shows promise, Atlanta may lean towards acquiring a seasoned starter. With talented playmakers like running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London, and tight end Kyle Pitts on the roster, the Falcons could greatly benefit from a proven quarterback. A reliable QB could maximize the potential of these offensive weapons and propel the franchise to its first playoff appearance since 2017.
