Steelers' Kirk Cousins Plan B, Bengals Rookie Drama, and James Cook Contract Dispute

Steelers' Quarterback Quandary: Rodgers vs. Cousins

• 🏈 The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly considering Kirk Cousins as a plan B if Aaron Rodgers retires instead of joining the team.
• ⚠️ Analysts express skepticism about Cousins, citing his age (nearly 37), recent Achilles injury, and past performance, particularly his interception rate.
• 📉 The consensus leans towards either securing Rodgers or tanking the season for a future franchise quarterback, rather than pursuing Cousins.

Bengals Rookie Contract Dispute: Shamar Stewart

• 🚧 First-round pick Shamar Stewart is missing Cincinnati Bengals OTAs due to a contract dispute over language regarding guaranteed money voiding.
• ❓ The dispute centers on a clause that could void future guarantees if a default occurs in the current year, a clause not present in recent contracts of other Bengals players.
• 📉 Stewart's absence is concerning for the Bengals, as he is a raw prospect needing immediate development and reps to contribute to a win-now team.

Travis Hunter's Route Running Concerns

• ⚡ Videos of Travis Hunter's route running at Jaguars OTAs have drawn criticism for being clunky, especially in deceleration and out routes.
• 💡 However, analysts downplay these concerns, noting that OTAs are non-contact and often don't reflect final performance, citing examples like Justin Jefferson and Ja'Marr Chase.
• 📈 Hunter is transitioning to full-time wide receiver, a new role that requires refinement, but early struggles in shorts and t-shirts are deemed insignificant.

James Cook's Contract Holdout and RB Valuations

• 💰 James Cook is skipping Buffalo Bills OTAs, seeking a new contract, with reports suggesting he desires around $15 million per year.
• 🤔 Discussions highlight the debate over running back valuations, with some arguing Cook is underpaid compared to other receivers and his impact, while others cite the position's replaceability.
• 📈 The Bills' perspective suggests Cook's value might be closer to $12 million, and if he holds out, they might consider trading him or letting him play out his contract to earn a compensatory pick.

Other OTA Absences and Contract Disputes

• ✈️ Terry McLaurin of the Washington Commanders is also absent from OTAs, seeking a contract that reflects his status as a top-tier receiver, not just the 18th highest paid.
• 🤷‍♂️ Kyle Pitts of the Atlanta Falcons is also holding out, a move seen by some as comical given his inconsistent production despite a high draft selection.
• 📈 These absences underscore the importance of OTAs for player development and contract negotiations, especially for rookies and established players seeking new deals.