The Atlanta Falcons are poised to make a significant roster move by releasing veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins in March, according to recent reports. The 37-year-old signal caller, who signed a substantial four-year, $180 million deal with the Falcons before the 2024 season after departing the Minnesota Vikings, now faces an uncertain future with the franchise.
Contract Restructure and Draft Decision Signal Shift
Despite the hefty financial commitment to Cousins, the Falcons made a surprising move by selecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft. This decision raised eyebrows across the league and set the stage for a quarterback competition in Atlanta.
Under former head coach Raheem Morris, Cousins experienced a slow start to the 2024 season, which ultimately led to him being benched in favour of Penix Jr. late in the campaign. However, in a twist of fate, Cousins reclaimed the starting role and guided the Falcons to four consecutive victories to conclude the 2025 season, demonstrating his enduring capability as a leader on the field.
Organisational Changes and Coaching Connections
The Falcons have undergone considerable organisational changes this offseason, most notably hiring Kevin Stefanski as the new head coach to replace Morris. Stefanski brings with him a prior working relationship with Cousins from their time together with the Minnesota Vikings, where Stefanski served as quarterbacks coach in 2018 and offensive coordinator the following season.
During his introductory press conference this week, Stefanski acknowledged his history with Cousins but remained non-committal regarding the quarterback's future with the team. "Obviously, I have a previous relationship with Kirk, but I don't know if it's the time yet to talk about all those types of things," Stefanski stated. "Those conversations will come in due time."
Potential Return on Revised Terms
While the Falcons are expected to release Cousins, reports indicate there remains a possibility he could return to the team under different financial arrangements. The organisation recently restructured Cousins' contract, a move that suggests they are unwilling to honour the original terms of his lucrative deal.
A return on a more economical contract could prove appealing to the Falcons' front office, particularly given Cousins' demonstrated ability to deliver results when called upon. The veteran quarterback's experience and proven track record might offer valuable stability as the team navigates this transitional period under new leadership.
League-Wide Quarterback Questions
Should Cousins become available on the open market, several NFL teams with quarterback uncertainties could express interest in his services. Organisations including the New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals, and Cleveland Browns all face questions at the quarterback position heading into the new season.
Cousins' future destination will likely depend on multiple factors, including his contractual expectations, team needs across the league, and his own preferences regarding playing time and organisational fit. The coming weeks will prove crucial in determining where the experienced quarterback will continue his professional career.
