QB Rumors: Falcons, Daniels, Rams, Titans

The HawksThe offseason quarterback plan has been heavily scrutinized, and evaluators are skeptical that the team will implement it. Kirk Cousinswho ranks third in the NFL with 1,830 passing yards (highlighted by a 500-yard performance against the Buccaneers), is currently established as Atlanta's starting QB. However, ESPN.com's Jeremy Fowler notes that some around the league don't believe the Falcons will go No. 8 overall Michael Penix Jr. for two seasons, as they planned. A push by Penix toward a starting job in 2025 would spark rumors of a Cousins ​​trade.

While nothing concrete has emerged on the Cousins ​​front, this isn't the first time executives have predicted a Falcons QB transfer for 2025. Some predicted the long-rumored cousins ​​in May:Kyle Shanahan The reunification would begin – if the 49ers got squeamish about one thing Brock Purdy Mega deal. The Falcons have Cousins ​​under contract through 2027, although they must opt ​​out in 2026 — after $90 million of his $100 million guarantee is paid out. However, Penix is ​​already 24 years old. It wouldn't be ideal for the Falcons to look after the southpaw until his 26-year-old season. Cousins' 2025 money is fully guaranteed, which will be challenging to make a trade. But if Penix's development pushes this situation toward potential controversy in 2025, expect another offseason of Cousins ​​rumors.

Here's the latest from the QB ranks:

• Jayden Daniels No training on Wednesday, move Marcus Mariota closer to his first start since 2022. The rib injury Commanders According to NFL.com's Ian Rapoport, a QB loss is not considered serious, but given the way Daniels flinched after attempting to return in Week 7, it wouldn't be a surprise if Washington exercised caution with the player, who has a great chance of becoming the team's first long-term QB1 in decades. Mariota played effectively against the Panthers but has not made a start since his controversial departure from the Falcons in December 2022.
• The Titans haven't seen hers Will Levis Development project brings remarkable progress. Crippling turnovers played a key role in Tennessee's 1-5 start, and Levis is now nursing a shoulder injury. The 2023 second-rounder ranks first among qualified options Deshaun Watson in the QBR. As a result, SI.com's Albert Breer expects the franchise to start looking to find a new quarterback by 2025. It's still early, but at this rate, it would be a possibility if Tennessee gave Levis a third year to prove he can be a solid starter. Ran CarthonGiven the resources dedicated to improving the offensive talent level surrounding Levis this offseason, the club would be an interesting target.
• Ditto Arieswho have Matthew Stafford according to an annual agreement. The Rams did not include Stafford in the trade this year, parting ways with the 16th-year veteran Cooper Kuppbut they also didn't approve any significant warranty upgrades — like the quarterback requested — beyond 2024. Breer therefore adds that the team should be considered for recruiting Stafford's heir apparent next year. Los Angeles is running out of time to find a successor who would develop behind Stafford, who is under contract through 2026. The team could now consider adding additional funding to support this potential mission, as a Kupp transfer would lead to this success. The Rams and Chiefs discussed Kupp, but LA's asking price – a second-rounder – could be high for a player who has battled injuries every season since his transcendent 2021.
• Aaron Rodgers doesn't appear to be in danger of missing Week 8, but the Jets Quarterback is now on the team's injury report with three illnesses. The 40-year-old starter is struggling with thigh, knee and ankle problems. Rodgers' hamstring “flared up” against the Steelers, tweets Rich Cimini of ESPN.com.