As the 2024 NFL Draft looms near, a major NFL source has reported that the league is nearing a resolution to a tampering situation that could potentially affect the Minnesota Vikings' draft plans. According to a report by Adam Schefter behind the E$PN paywall, it appears that the Atlanta Falcons tampered with quarterback Kirk Cousins before the start of free agency.

During his introductory press conference with the Falcons, Cousins revealed that he had been in contact with the team's training staff during the "legal tampering" period, when only player representatives are allowed to communicate with teams. The league is now expected to reach a resolution on this matter soon.

Schefter's report suggests that the disciplinary measures are likely to involve draft picks, with the penalties anticipated to be more severe for the Falcons than any consequences the Philadelphia Eagles might face for their alleged tampering with former New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley. It is expected that the resolution for both cases will be announced simultaneously.

Tampering incidents have occurred in the past, including some instances last year. The Miami Dolphins, prior to the 2023 NFL Draft, were stripped of their first-round pick and a 2024 third-round selection for tampering with Tom Brady and Sean Payton over a three-year period. Additionally, the Arizona Cardinals tampered with former Eagles assistant coach Jonathan Gannon during their head coach search, resulting in the Cardinals having to swap third-round picks with Philadelphia and receiving a fifth-round pick in this year's draft.

There is speculation that the disciplinary action against the Falcons might include swapping first-round picks with the Vikings, potentially moving the Vikings from the 11th pick to the 8th pick in the first round. The severity of the punishment is uncertain at this point, but the league is expected to reveal its decision in the near future.

Football fans and analysts alike eagerly await the outcome of the league's investigation into the tampering allegations surrounding the Falcons and the potential impact it will have on the upcoming NFL Draft. Stay tuned for further updates on the resolution and its consequences for both teams involved.