Falcons Favor Established Pro Bowler Over Justin Fields
The Chicago Bears hold the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and are likely to seek a replacement for Justin Fields. While Atlanta appears to be a desirable destination for the Georgia native, reports suggest that the Falcons may have their sights set on a different quarterback.
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, multiple sources indicate that the Falcons prioritize signing Kirk Cousins over trading for Justin Fields as their top quarterback solution, assuming Cousins becomes available in free agency. Graziano notes that negotiations between Cousins and the Minnesota Vikings have reached an impasse, with neither side willing to compromise. Spotrac estimates Cousins’ market value at approximately $39.3 million annually for a three-year deal, and with the Vikings having $41.09 million in cap space, the possibility of Cousins testing free agency looms.
Despite Cousins’ recent Achilles tear, signs point to a speedy recovery, as evidenced by videos shared on his social media platform. In his eight games last season, Cousins threw 18 touchdowns and boasted the league’s seventh-best QBR (63.2). In contrast, Fields completed 61.4% of his passes for 16 touchdowns and rushed for 657 yards in 13 games. The Bears are reportedly seeking a second- or third-round pick in exchange for the 24-year-old Fields, a steep asking price given his 10-28 starting record.
While Fields shows promise, Atlanta may prefer the reliability of a proven starter like Cousins. With talented playmakers such as running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London, and tight end Kyle Pitts on their roster, the Falcons believe that the right quarterback could lead them to their first playoff appearance since 2017.
