NFL Rumors: Kirk Cousins, Baker Mayfield Linked to Falcons by Insider Ahead of FA

While the Atlanta Falcons have been heavily linked to Justin Fields as a potential trade target, they are also keeping an eye on free agency to address their need at quarterback.

Per The Athletic's Dianna Russini, Kirk Cousins and Baker Mayfield are seen as potential options for the Falcons if either or both don't sign a new deal with the teams they played for last season.

Cousins is doing a very good job of playing the negotiating game. He released a video on Monday showing the progress he's made since tearing his Achilles in the fourth quarter of an Oct. 29 game against the Green Bay Packers.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell told reporters that Cousins "knows how I feel about him" and they would like to have him back next season.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported on Sunday the Vikings were planning to initiate contract talks with Cousins' representatives during the NFL scouting combine.

Mayfield has expressed his hope that he will remain with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reported last week the two sides had preliminary talks about a new deal and general manager Jason Licht planned to meet with Mayfield's agent at the combine.

Russini noted Cousins has familiarity with Falcons head coach Raheem Morris and offensive coordinator Zac Robinson. Morris was the defensive backs coach in Washington for Cousins' first three seasons in the NFL from 2012 to '14.

NBC Sports Chicago's Josh Schrock reported earlier this week that the Falcons "checked in" with the Chicago Bears about Justin Fields prior to the start of the combine.

Given how the market for quarterbacks tends to go, especially when anyone of even decent value hits free agency, it's smart for the Falcons to keep their options open. There will likely be a resolution to their situation when free agency begins on March 13 at 4 p.m. ET.

The Falcons are seeking a new quarterback after using Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke last season. They finished 7-10 for the third consecutive season and missed the playoffs for the sixth straight year.