DEAL DONE: Kirk Cousins’ return to Minnesota Vikings hinges on Atlanta Falcons dropping price for former star quarterback’s hefty bonus…
In a dramatic twist that could shape the quarterback landscape in the NFL, reports have emerged that Kirk Cousins’ potential return to the Minnesota Vikings now hinges on the Atlanta Falcons’ willingness to lower the asking price attached to the hefty bonus clause in his current contract.
Cousins, who joined the Falcons in the 2024 offseason on a lucrative four-year deal worth $180 million, has found himself at the center of trade speculation following the Falcons’ selection of a highly-rated quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. That move has led many to believe that Atlanta is looking to move on from the veteran earlier than expected — and Minnesota is watching closely.
League sources indicate that the Vikings are open to a reunion with Cousins, who spent six productive seasons in purple and gold from 2018 to 2023. But the primary roadblock is financial. The Falcons reportedly want a significant return for Cousins, while also expecting the acquiring team to absorb the majority — if not all — of his pending $30 million roster bonus, due later this year.
“The Vikings have strong interest in bringing Cousins back, especially with the uncertainty surrounding their quarterback room and the sudden shift in strategy following the Aaron Rodgers acquisition,” said an NFL insider. “But they aren’t willing to take on the full weight of that bonus without Atlanta eating a portion of it or sweetening the deal.”
Minnesota head coach Kevin O’Connell, who worked closely with Cousins during their time together, has remained publicly noncommittal about the situation. However, sources say he values Cousins’ experience, leadership, and familiarity with the Vikings’ offensive scheme — particularly after the team’s bold, high-risk move in landing Rodgers.
For Cousins, a return to Minnesota reportedly holds appeal. The veteran quarterback still has close ties within the organization and has previously stated he would “always consider” a return to the place where he enjoyed some of the best years of his career.
“Kirk is keeping his options open,” a source close to Cousins revealed. “He loved playing in Minnesota. If the opportunity is right, and if the numbers make sense, he would absolutely be open to a reunion.”
The situation remains fluid, and much depends on the Falcons’ willingness to restructure the financials of a deal. Atlanta, for their part, appears focused on moving forward with their newly drafted quarterback, though they are hesitant to part with Cousins unless the terms are favorable.
Meanwhile, Vikings fans are divided on the prospect. Some view Cousins as a stabilizing force and a familiar face who could thrive in a backup or transitional role. Others believe the franchise should commit fully to its new direction with Rodgers under center.
As negotiations continue behind the scenes, the NFL world watches closely. If the Falcons blink first on the bonus demand, a shocking return for Cousins to Minnesota could become reality — and it would mark yet another stunning chapter in an offseason already full of unexpected moves.