The Cleveland Browns have quarterback uncertainty looming large in extreme waters. With their struggles and injury history with Deshaun Watson, rumors have swirled regarding the Browns might trade with the Atlanta Falcons for quarterback Kirk Cousins. There are, however, several reasons why making this move would be a mistake.
Financial Constraints
Cousins is set to carry a massive cap hit of $40 million in 2025 and even more in subsequent years. Cleveland is already dealing with financial burdens due to Watson’s $230 million fully guaranteed contract, which is set to be an avg. of $46 million for the next two years, and other expensive deals on their roster, like the new Myles Garrett contract. Taking on Cousins’ salary would limit their ability to improve the offensive line, receiving corps, and other key areas.
Draft Capital Costs
Kirk Cousins probably won’t be given away cheaply, either. If the Falcons are willing to move on, the price will be high (at least valuable draft assets). With No. 2 overall pick, the Browns finally find themselves in a good position to draft a young quarterback and rebuild the future team. Going out and trading for Cousins is a fix at best in the short term, and long-term stability is what you’re sacrificing.
No-Trade Clause Complication
Cousins has no trade clause, so he controls his next destination. According to reports, he might not waive it until after the first round of the NFL Draft. Browns would be left scrambling for alternatives in free agency, or later rounds if they pass up on a quarterback at No. 2 and Cousins lands in Atlanta.
The Smarter Option: Draft a Quarterback
The Browns have a rare opportunity to draft a young, talented quarterback with the second overall pick. Then they would have a cost-controlled player to use for the next couple of years, they’d have that financial flexibility to try to fill in the holes elsewhere. Relying on an aging, expensive Kirk Cousins would only delay their search for a real franchise quarterback.
Final Thoughts
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