The quarterback market is heating up with names like Derek Carr, Kirk Cousins, and Aaron Rodgers coming to the forefront, especially as the NFL draft approaches. The situation around these players is being influenced significantly by Jaylen Ramsey's potential trade, as teams like Atlanta might need to clear cap space to make deals happen. Cousins' standing remains robust in the league despite some doubts about his recent performance, with Miami eyeing experienced backups. The dynamics of trades are complex, especially with Cousins' no-trade clause playing a crucial role in determining his future. Teams such as Pittsburgh and San Francisco may look to acquire a quarterback as they navigate their own challenges, further complicating the landscape.

The Minnesota Vikings find themselves in a critical phase as they prepare for the upcoming NFL draft, yet the focus is shifting to their backup quarterback situation. With Kirk Cousins as their starter, the Vikings are exploring various options for a reliable backup. The market remains tight, with teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cincinnati Bengals, and Miami Dolphins securing their backup QBs early. The Vikings, however, still have the pick of the litter among available quarterbacks but are under pressure with the draft looming. Speculation about Cousins returning as a backup fuels conversations, but complexities of his contract and the financial implications make this scenario highly unlikely for both him and the team.

Amidst this, names like Drew Lock and C.J. Beathard emerge as potential backup options, but uncertainty looms as teams finalize their rosters post-draft. Furthermore, the Vikings want to ensure they align their choice with the long-term vision under head coach Kevin O'Connell, who has been vocal about establishing a new era with promising talent like J.J. McCarthy. As the draft approaches, the Vikings must navigate these dynamics carefully to avoid further complications in their quarterback situation.

Derek Carr's injury raises significant concerns for the New Orleans Saints, potentially sidelining him for the entire 2025 season. This opens the door for a much-needed quarterback transition for the team, which has struggled in recent times, marked by a seven-game losing streak during the 2024 NFL season. The Saints may be motivated to move up in the upcoming draft to secure a top quarterback prospect, especially given their favorable draft capital, including four picks in the top 100.

Names like Shadur Sanders and Jackson Dart are already being discussed as potential options for the team. Carr's absence may serve as a catalyst for a more extensive rebuild, which has been anticipated by fans. Moreover, the signing of Joe Flacco by the Cleveland Browns affects the quarterback market, possibly eliminating Kirk Cousins as a trade option. The shifting dynamics in the league necessitate strategic moves by teams like the Saints to avoid being left behind in the competitive quarterback landscape.

With the NFL draft approaching, Kirk Cousins was recently spotted in Cleveland, sparking speculation about a potential trade with the Browns. While there’s no confirmation about his visit being related to the Browns, it has raised eyebrows, especially with the team potentially looking to draft Abdul Carter with their second overall pick. The dynamic around Cousins is interesting, especially after he was overlooked by Atlanta last season, leaving him cautious about signing before the draft.

The situation surrounding the Browns continues to develop, with discussions about trading for a quarterback like Cousins or possibly drafting a rookie to reset the franchise following the Deshaun Watson controversy. The Saints are also in the mix, eyeing Cam Ward as a potential pick, which could lead to a significant trade move. The complexity of these scenarios highlights the shifting landscape as teams prepare for the draft and address their quarterback needs.