Cousins & Pitts: Falcons OTAs Absence Fuels Trade Rumors
Kirk Cousins and Kyle Pitts’ absence from Falcons OTAs ignites major speculation. The primary_keyword,Cousins’ potential trade,surfaces after the arrival of Michael Penix Jr., while the secondary_keyword, Pitts’ contract status, comes into sharp focus as he enters his final rookie year. The Falcons face complex decisions with significant financial implications, particularly Cousins’ hefty guaranteed salary. News Directory 3 reports on the evolving Atlanta landscape. Discover what’s next for these key players and the team’s strategic moves.
Cousins, Pitts Skip Falcons OTAs Amid Trade, Contract Speculation
Updated May 28, 2025
Quarterback Kirk Cousins and tight end kyle Pitts were not present at the Atlanta Falcons’ OTAs on Tuesday. While attendance isn’t mandatory, their absences have stirred speculation. The falcons’ quarterback situation is in flux,and Pitts is nearing the end of his rookie contract.
Cousins,who signed a four-year,$180 million extension with Atlanta,may be seeking a trade.The emergence of Michael Penix Jr. has seemingly made Cousins expendable. While Cousins may want to start this season, finding a trade partner could prove challenging.
Pitts is entering the final year of his rookie deal. His absence raises questions about a potential contract extension. The 2025 season is crucial for the 24-year-old tight end.
Cousins’ attendance at the Falcons’ offseason program in April surprised many. However, the 36-year-old appears to be changing course as he awaits a potential trade. While OTAs are voluntary, his absence is noteworthy.
During his single season with atlanta, Cousins started 14 games, going 7-7. He averaged 250.6 passing yards per game, throwing 18 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. Despite the Falcons’ suggestion that Cousins could back up Penix in 2025, reports indicate that both parties recognize their futures lie apart.
Money remains a significant hurdle in trading Cousins. He has $37.5 million in guaranteed money remaining on his contract.Atlanta would likely need to absorb some of that money to facilitate a trade. the Falcons reportedly asked interested teams to cover $20 million of the guaranteed amount, but no team agreed.
What’s next
Potential landing spots for Cousins in 2025 are limited. While the New Orleans Saints could be an option following Derek Carr’s retirement,a trade to a division rival seems unlikely. The Cleveland Browns, once considered a favorite due to Kevin Stefanski’s familiarity with Cousins, have since drafted multiple quarterbacks.