Falcons will make a move that prevents them to get any compensation for Kirk Cousins, but there’s a good reason for it
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Atlanta Falcons News
After benching Kirk Cousins in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr., the Atlanta Falcons are expected to make another big move.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that executives across the league believe the Falcons will cut Cousins before his $10 million bonus is due on March 17.
“Front office executives observing the situation have pointed out that, due to the no-trade clause in Cousins’ contract, he now has all the leverage — and nobody believes he will be doing any favors for a Falcons team that surprised him on draft night by selecting another quarterback — Michael Penix Jr. — in the first round, then benching him this week in favor of the rookie,” Schefter wrote.
“Thus there now is a widespread expectation across the league that the Falcons will not be able to trade Cousins and they will have to release him before March 17, when his $10 million roster bonus for the 2026 season comes due. There’s no need for the Falcons to absorb any more costs for a quarterback that cost them $90 million for 14 games.”
Titans HC Brian Callahan press conference highlights, previews Titans/Texans matchup.Titans HC Brian Callahan press conference highlights, previews Titans/Texans matchup.
The Falcons made the benching official earlier this week by releasing a statement.
“After review we have made the decision Michael Penix Jr. will be the Atlanta Falcons starting quarterback moving forward. This was a football decision and we are fully focused on preparing the team for Sunday’s game against the New York Giants,” Falcons head coach Raheem Morris wrote.
This offseason, the Falcons signed Cousins to a 4-year, $180 million contract, with $90 million fully guaranteed.
So, it was a controversial decision when Atlanta decided to draft Penix with the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft rather than selecting an additional weapon for their new veteran quarterback.
But, now it’s proving to be the right choice, with Cousins heading to the bench after 14 games.
Cousins has struggled this season, currently having 303 completions for 3,508 passing yards and 18 passing touchdowns. Yet, he also has a career high 16 interceptions.
And with that, the Falcons are in second place in the NFC South with a 7-7 record. They are on the bubble for the playoffs, and are hoping Penix Jr. can help them solidify a spot for some additional football in January.
So, for a second straight offseason, Cousins will be a free agent.
