In this blockbuster trade proposal, the Atlanta Falcons trade quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

While the Atlanta Falcons missed the playoffs, they have found their quarterback of the present and future in Michael Penix. But Penix’s emergence has left Kirk Cousins’ future with the Falcons hanging in the balance.

Perhaps the biggest layer is Cousins's no-trade clause. He has the right to waive it and decline trades to other teams, which makes sense for his camp considering a trade would detract assets from his new team. Fontenot said whether the Falcons can adjust Cousins's no-trade clause is a private discussion that will happen in due time.

Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot said the team wouldn’t hesitate bringing back Kirk Cousins next season as Michael Penix Jr.’s backup quarterback -- even with Cousins’ large salary-cap hit in 2025.

The Falcons are supposedly OK with a $180 million backup quarterback. Atlanta general manager Terry Fontenot said the franchise is “comfortable” with keeping Kirk Cousins on as the No. 2 behind Michael Penix Jr. in 2025.

When the Atlanta Falcons benched Kirk Cousins for rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. late in December, the move signaled a shift toward the

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero: Atlanta Falcons are 'comfortable' with Kirk Cousins as backup quarterback in 2025. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero: Atlanta Falcons are 'comfortable' with Kirk Cousins as backup quarterback in 2025.

Kirk Cousins and the defense. They will have to explore ways of getting rid of the veteran while supporting their franchise quarterback in Michael Penix Jr.