Kirk Cousins' Trade Value, Terms Reportedly Set by Falcons amid NFL Rumors

The Atlanta Falcons reportedly still have a high asking price in any potential trades for veteran backup quarterback Kirk Cousins.

On Sunday, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported, "My understanding is the Falcons would, in fact, trade Kirk Cousins, but are gonna ask for a lot in return. They're gonna ask for someone to eat some salary and a premium pick."

In the second year of his four-year, $180 million deal with Atlanta, Cousins is making $27.5 million this season to ride the bench, so it's not a surprise that the team is hoping for someone to absorb a chunk of his salary. He also has a no-trade clause in his contract, giving him the ability to control his destiny.

Rapoport added that the Falcons' lofty trade demands stem from "the unbelievable value Cousins has as their backup in case something happens to" starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who has led them to a 1-1 start this season.

While Cousins is a reliable signal-caller who can improve many teams that are dealing with injuries at the quarterback position, Rapoport noted that "no one has called" Atlanta seeking a deal for the 37-year-old. He pointed out that most of the injuries across the league aren't long-term, with the one exception being the Cincinnati Bengals losing Joe Burrow for at least three months due to toe surgery. However, the Bengals are sticking with backup quarterback Jake Browning rather than pursuing a trade for Cousins.

There's a lot that can happen between now and the NFL trade deadline following Week 9, so perhaps a landing spot will open up for Cousins eventually. For now, it seems like the Falcons have to stick with their pricey backup quarterback as Penix continues his development as the starter.