Russini: What I’m hearing on Kirk Cousins, QB injuries and more NFL trade deadline talk in Week 6

The NFL trade deadline is quickly approaching, and teams are actively discussing potential trades and player acquisitions. Several teams to keep an eye on include the Denver Broncos, Carolina Panthers, Arizona Cardinals, Las Vegas Raiders, Minnesota Vikings, and Tennessee Titans. The upcoming weeks will be crucial as teams meet with their owners to decide whether to position themselves for the top quarterback prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft, such as Caleb Williams and Drake Maye.

Let’s begin with the most talked-about trade speculation involving Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins. It’s uncommon for starting quarterbacks to be traded at the NFL trade deadline, mainly due to the challenges of integrating a new quarterback in the middle of the season. Additionally, Cousins has a no-trade clause and becomes a free agent in March. The Vikings also have no plans to trade him and believe they can turn their season around, given their strong performance in key statistical categories.

Another hurdle in trading for Cousins is finding a team willing to give up valuable draft assets and cover his salary. Although teams like the Jets, Steelers, Browns, and Falcons appear to be potential trade partners, it doesn’t seem likely that any of these organizations are actively pursuing a trade for Cousins. However, circumstances could change if a contending team’s quarterback sustains an injury in the coming weeks and they need a replacement.

While Cousins may not be on the trading block, the Vikings have received calls about other players who could be potential trade candidates. These include three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Danielle Hunter, receiver K.J. Osborn, and safety Harrison Smith.

Moving on to other teams, the Denver Broncos are open to trade discussions as they seek to acquire valuable draft capital. However, they don’t intend to have a complete fire sale. Wide receivers Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton could be potential trade assets, although the Broncos were unable to secure deals for them in previous discussions. The Broncos highly value Pat Surtain II and are unlikely to move him.

The Las Vegas Raiders are in win-now mode, and after releasing Chandler Jones, they are looking to bolster their pass rush. They may also trade receiver Hunter Renfrow, who has seen limited playing time this season.

Meanwhile, the New York Jets are actively seeking trade partners for receiver Mecole Hardman, and it’s worth keeping an eye on the Kansas City Chiefs as a potential suitor. The Jets may also entertain offers for edge rusher Carl Lawson and possibly even Dalvin Cook as the trade deadline approaches.

Lastly, let’s discuss the different strategies employed by the Baltimore Ravens and Tennessee Titans for their game in London. The Ravens opted to fly to London early to adjust to the time change, while the Titans stayed in Nashville until Thursday afternoon. Both teams have their own approaches to dealing with jet lag and adapting to the new time zone.

In other news, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has recovered from his calf injury and is nearing full health. Despite some soreness, he has been participating in practice and showing promising signs of his old playing style.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will be inactive for Sunday’s game due to a bruised rotator cuff. However, there is no structural damage, and he won’t require surgery after the season.

Lastly, New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones will not play against the Buffalo Bills due to a neck injury.

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John Smith

ohn Smith is your NFL insider, providing in-depth coverage of football’s biggest league. With a passion for the game and a keen eye for statistics, John delivers game analysis, player profiles, and breaking news to keep readers updated on all things NFL.