4 non-Jets teams that could trade for Kirk Cousins in 2023

Team No. 3

Cleveland Browns

In 2022, the Cleveland Browns took a giant risk when they traded for controversial quarterback Deshaun Watson and then signed him to a fully guaranteed five-year contract worth $230 million.

Watson's performance with the Browns was a bit underwhelming last season, but he seems to be finding a groove with the team this year. Cleveland now has a 2-1 record after getting a 27-3 win over the Tennessee Titans, thanks in part to Watson throwing for 289 yards and two touchdowns.

Similarly to the argument with the 49ers, the only way the Browns might be interested in making a trade with the Vikings for Kirk Cousins this season would be if Watson wound up suffering a significant injury at a time when they are in contention for a top spot in the AFC playoff bracket.

Dorian Thompson-Robinson is currently Cleveland's No. 2 quarterback, and as much as the team was impressed with the rookie this summer in training camp and the preseason, it's hard to imagine that they would feel comfortable with him filling in for Watson for a large amount of time this year if needed.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski might prefer to bring in a veteran quarterback he's had success with in the past. Cousins would qualify for this category as he and Stefanski worked together in Minnesota in 2019 when the Cleveland head coach was the Vikings' offensive coordinator.

Given the quarterback's history with Stefanski, Cousins could end up being a top trade target for the Browns before this year's deadline if Watson ends up needing to miss a large amount of time due to an injury.

In addition to Cousins potentially not wanting to waive his no-trade clause, Cleveland doesn't have a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. So if a 2024 first-round selection is what Minnesota is looking for in return for their quarterback, then the Browns might be unable to complete a deal.