As the 2025 NFL Season looms, a few familiar names are still sitting in limbo. Kirk Cousins is skipping OTAs in Atlanta, Trey Hendrickson won’t suit up without a contract in Cincinnati, and Jalen Ramseyseems destined for a new home after a quiet departure from the Dolphins’ long-term plans.
It’s not unusual to see veterans caught in cap crunches or stuck in awkward organizational shifts – but all three of these players still bring major value. The question isn’t whether teams are interested. It’s who’s willing to meet the price.
Cousins Wants Out – and the Browns Might Be His Best Bet
The situation in Atlanta is strained. Cousins, benched late last season for rookie Michael Penix Jr., hasn’t hidden his frustration – especially after reportedly asking for a release in a call with owner Arthur Blank. Despite a $27.5 million guarantee, the Falcons may be ready to move on.
Cleveland’s offer stands out: Kenny Pickett, a sixth-rounder in 2026, and cash for Cousins and a late pick. The reunion with Browns coach Kevin Stefanski makes sense, and Cousins would walk into a very real QB competition, especially with Deshaun Watson still recovering.
Minnesota made two offers to bring Cousins back, but he’d likely block them via his no-trade clause. Being a backup again – even in familiar territory – doesn’t appeal to him.
Hendrickson Draws NFC Interest as Bengals Consider Future
The Bengals know what they have in Hendrickson – last year’s NFL sack leader – but they also know they might not want to pay him what he wants heading into his age-31 season. That’s where Detroit comes in.
The Lions’ offer includes a 2026 second-round pick and a conditional 2027 fourth, plus they’re ready to hand Hendrickson a big extension. Detroit’s pass rush, already anchored by Aidan Hutchinson, could become one of the league’s most feared.
Cincinnati would get long-term value while avoiding another high-priced contract, with Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase already eating up significant cap space.
Ramsey’s Time in Miami Is Likely Over – But the Panthers Make Sense
The Dolphins gave up little to land Jalen Ramsey in 2023 – but after a quiet offseason breakup, they aren’t expecting much in return either. The veteran corner’s $20.2 million guaranteed in 2025 is a sticking point.
Carolina might be the right fit. Defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero coached Ramsey in L.A., and the Panthers still need help in the secondary. ESPN’s Ben Solak pitched a fourth-rounder in 2026, which could be the best Miami gets. It’s a clean deal for both sides, and Ramsey gets a chance to lead again – possibly at safety.
The Bigger Picture: Teams Get Flexible, Players Get Fresh Starts
For teams like the Falcons, Bengals, and Dolphins, moving veterans now is about flexibility – cap space, draft picks, and fresh starts for younger talent. For Cousins, Hendrickson, and Ramsey, it’s about finding meaningful roles on competitive teams.
Whether these deals actually happen is anyone’s guess, but based on ESPN’s insider projections and league sources, they’re more than just fantasy. As the offseason rolls on, don’t be surprised if one – or all three – make headlines for real.
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