As the 2025 NFL season approaches, several notable players are potentially on the move. Kirk Cousins skipped the Falcons’ organized team activities, Trey Hendrickson is holding out from Bengals practices without a new deal, and the Dolphins are openly shopping Jalen Ramsey. All three situations suggest that trades are possible, and teams are assessing what these veterans might fetch on the market.
To explore realistic trade scenarios, ESPN analysts proposed hypothetical deals for Cousins, Hendrickson, and Ramsey. NFL Nation reporters then evaluated these offers and selected the most reasonable ones, acting as general managers for their respective teams. The analysis looked at each player’s current standing and what teams might be a suitable fit.
Cousins’ relationship with the Falcons has been strained since he signed his deal. From revealing potential tampering in his first press conference to publicly criticizing the team’s decision to draft Michael Penix Jr., Cousins’ time in Atlanta has been rocky. After being benched late last season and dealing with a hidden injury, he now wants out, though his no-trade clause gives him final say.
Despite the issues, Atlanta is willing to keep Cousins as a backup if a trade can’t be made, but their preference is to move him and clear some of his guaranteed salary. Multiple mock deals have been proposed, including one where the Browns trade Kenny Pickett to the Falcons in exchange for Cousins—an offer considered ideal due to Cousins’ connection with Cleveland’s head coach and Atlanta’s financial benefit.
On the defensive side, Trey Hendrickson is looking for a long-term extension after leading the league in sacks last season. Although the Bengals have allowed him to explore trade options, they haven’t received an offer that meets their expectations. Still, given their cap space and roster needs, Cincinnati could either extend Hendrickson or trade him for draft capital that supports their push with Joe Burrow at quarterback.
