The Atlanta Falcons have been content keeping Kirk Cousins as long as necessary; however, that doesn’t mean the situation will be smooth sailing. On Netflix’s Quarterback, Cousins revealed that his decision to join Atlanta might have been different if he had known they were drafting Michael Penix Jr.
“Certainly, if I had that information around free agency, it would've affected my decision. I had no reason to leave Minnesota, with how much we loved it there, if both teams were going to be drafting a quarterback high. But I've also learned in 12 years in this league that you're not entitled to anything — it's all about earning your spot and proving yourself,” Cousins said.
The Falcons nearly struck a deal with the Steelers to trade Cousins, but the Steelers ultimately signed Aaron Rodgers.
“That stinks for Cousins, and the Falcons may not be too thrilled about running out of trade options either. While Atlanta has said it is 'comfortable' keeping Cousins around as its backup, general manager Terry Fontenot can't be eager to hand out a $27.5 million salary to his QB2,” Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox wrote.
Shortly after Rodgers signed, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero noted that the Falcons are closely monitoring quarterback injuries across the league throughout training camp and the season. While the strategy might seem unusual, a perfect example of its potential was when Will Levis was ruled out for the season.
“So, no, the Levis injury doesn't make the Titans likely suitors for Cousins. But it is a reminder of how often injuries happen in football. If the injury bug should hit another team who wants to win in 2025, then the Falcons may just have the perfect suitor for Cousins,” Sports Illustrated’s Dave Holcomb wrote.
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The Falcons will continue watching teams around the league. They want to offload Cousins for the right deal but won’t be rushed or finessed. If they stick to their plan, something good could come of it eventually.