The Pittsburgh Steelers just went through the craziest offseason behind center perhaps in the franchise’s history. But that doesn’t mean there won’t be anymore drama. A scenario exists where quarterback Kirk Cousins, who pundits connected to the Steelers this offseason, could find his way to Pittsburgh.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell suggested the Atlanta Falcons could move on from Cousins after 2024 for No. 8 overall pick Michael Penix Jr. Should that occur, the Steelers are a possible fit for Cousins.
“The other potential landing spots appear to be with the Raiders, Steelers and Titans, none of whom have a settled quarterback of the future,” wrote Barnwell on May 8. “The Giants, Jets, Saints, Seahawks and even the Dolphins could also be in the market for a veteran starter
“If Cousins plays well in 2024 and both he and the Falcons want to split, there will be a market for him next year.”
Cousins signed a 4-year, $180 million deal with Atlanta this offseason. But the Falcons drafted Penix with their first-round pick, and he will turn 25 next May. There will likely be urgency from the organization to switch to Penix behind center before the end of his second season.
That could push Cousins to finish his career elsewhere.
The Steelers added both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields this offseason, but neither quarterback is under contract beyond 2024.
How Kirk Cousins Could Land With Steelers
A lot of things will have to happen for a Cousins-Steelers union to occur. But it’s not out of the realm of possibilities.
“[Cousins] has a full no-trade clause, which means he can force the franchise to pay him that $100 million over two years before moving on to Penix for the 2026 season,” wrote Barnwell. “Naturally, while Cousins might not want to move on to another city after just landing in Atlanta, the veteran might also not want to sit in 2025 behind Penix if the Falcons are ready to move on.”
