It appears that Kirk Cousins' journey with the Atlanta Falcons is nearing its conclusion. Sources indicate that the team intends to part ways with the quarterback ahead of the upcoming NFL league year, marking a significant shift in their roster strategy.
This anticipated departure follows a recent adjustment to Cousins' contract, where his base salary for 2026 was substantially reduced, with the majority of the original amount deferred to his 2027 salary. This altered agreement, as reported by ESPN, makes his continued presence on the team beyond the start of the new league year highly improbable, effectively setting the stage for his release. Cousins had a mixed performance in the 2025 season, stepping into the starting role after an injury to Michael Penix Jr. He concluded his tenure with eight starts, accumulating 1,376 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions, leading the team to five wins in those games.
With Cousins' expected exit, Michael Penix Jr. emerges as the primary candidate to take over as the Falcons' starting quarterback. However, the new leadership, including President of Football Matt Ryan, General Manager Ian Cunningham, and Head Coach Kevin Stefanski, has maintained an open stance regarding the long-term starting position. The upcoming months will undoubtedly bring clarity to the Falcons' quarterback situation, as the team looks to solidify its future under new guidance. This decision underscores the dynamic nature of professional sports, where strategic changes are often made to align with evolving team goals and player performances, ultimately aiming for sustained success and a competitive edge in the league.