NFL trade rumors around the Green Bay Packers picked up again as the team still has not locked down a clear backup behind Jordan Love. That gap has now brought a familiar veteran name into focus. Kirk Cousins, who recently parted ways with the Falcons, is firmly on the radar.It may sound unexpected. Still, Green Bay has a real reason to explore options. Love has missed games in each of the past two seasons. The team does not want to take chances at quarterback depth heading into a playoff push.
Kirk Cousins trade rumors: Packers explore option as trade buzz links veteran QB to Green Bay backup role
The Green Bay Packers lost Malik Willis in free agency earlier this March, which opened up the QB2 spot. Right now, Desmond Ridder and Kyle McCord remain in the mix, but neither brings long-term assurance. That is where Cousins’ trade talks make sense.Asked this week by reporters if he’s explored Kirk Cousins as an option, general manager Brian Gutekunst replied, “We’ve discussed a lot of those options. Obviously, that’s a guy who’s got a lot of pelts on the wall in this league, so we’ve certainly discussed all those kinds of things, and we’ll see where it goes.”Cousins, 37, is now a free agent after his short stint with the Atlanta Falcons ended earlier this month. In the 2025 season, he went 5-3 as a starter. He completed 61.7 per cent of his passes for 1,721 yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions. Those numbers show he can still steady an offense when needed.To be clear, this is not about replacing Jordan Love. The Packers are looking for insurance. A veteran like Cousins gives them control and experience if Love misses time again.At the same time, Green Bay is not locked into one plan. Other options like Jimmy Garoppolo and Russell Wilson remain in the conversation. Trade routes could also open up as the draft gets closer. Still, Cousins stands out as one of the more reliable names available right now. Even if Cousins is a free agent, teams often weigh both trades and signings at this stage of the offseason. For the Packers, the goal is simple. Protect the quarterback position and stay competitive. And if that means bringing in a proven veteran like Cousins, the move starts to look less surprising and more like smart planning.
