Speculation surrounds the Minnesota Vikings as they seek a backup quarterback for J.J. McCarthy. With Aaron Rodgers likely headed to the Steelers and Kirk Cousins potentially joining the Browns, the options narrow significantly. Ryan Tannehill, who has a strong arm and significant NFL experience, emerges as a prime candidate. However, Joe Flacco and Drew Lock are also in consideration, with Tannehill being the most favorable among the group given his 36 years and recent inactivity.

The Vikings hope McCarthy can be their starter, but after undergoing knee surgeries, there's concern about his durability. The team is not expected to finalize their backup choice for another month. As the roster reshuffles, potential candidates like Trey Lance, who is signing with the Chargers, are off the table, further complicating the Vikings' situation.

The NFL landscape is buzzing with potential trades as draft day approaches. Star pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson's future with the Cincinnati Bengals is uncertain due to contract issues, which may lead him to a new team. Meanwhile, Kirk Cousins finds himself as an expensive backup in Atlanta, as Michael Penix Jr. secures the starting QB position. The Chicago Bears are mulling over D’Andre Swift's fate as they eye Boise State's Ashton Jeanty in the draft, while Tyreek Hill's social media activity raises eyebrows about his future with the Dolphins.

George Pickens' role is in jeopardy following the Steelers’ acquisition of DK Metcalf, and the Las Vegas Raiders might part ways with Michael Mayer given the presence of Brock Bowers. The Packers face tough decisions with Quay Walker and Jaire Alexander, both of whom could end up on the trade block if their performance does not improve.

The Atlanta Falcons are prepared to part ways with quarterback Kirk Cousins, who they no longer expect to attend offseason voluntary workouts. While there were previous intentions to retain him as a backup following a demotion, the team is now open to trading him. However, the Cleveland Browns are not a potential landing spot for Cousins, as they are uninterested in taking on his substantial contract. Cousins has expressed a desire to be released, which aligns with the Falcons’ willingness to grant that request, especially given the complications arising from his no-trade clause.

Concerns linger about the complexities of Cousins' contract, which some executives view as "untradeable" unless he is willing to adjust his deal significantly. The situation has reportedly soured since the Falcons selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in the first round last offseason, leading to a rift between Cousins and the organization. If Cousins remains with Atlanta, it could be as the highest-paid backup in the NFL.

Kirk Cousins' high-profile presence in the Atlanta Falcons' quarterback room raises questions about team dynamics as Michael Penix Jr. steps into the starting role. Falcons owner Arthur Blank acknowledges Cousins' professional demeanor but hints at potential trade scenarios, especially with the Cleveland Browns. With a massive contract, Cousins represents both a significant investment and a safety net for the franchise. Despite a rocky previous season, Blank's faith in Cousins remains, suggesting he could be an essential asset, even as the team transitions to a new starter. The dilemma lies in balancing respect for Cousins' stature with the need for a viable backup plan in a league where quarterbacks often face injury risks.