Kirk Cousins’ tenure with the Atlanta Falcons is nearing its conclusion. Falcons general manager Ian Cunningham confirmed Tuesday that the team will release the veteran quarterback once the new NFL league year begins next month. Cunningham said he informed Cousins directly, citing respect for his career and the importance of giving him clarity heading into free agency.
Cousins joined Atlanta two years ago after the Minnesota Vikings decided to move on, signing a four-year, $180 million contract with $100 million guaranteed. His situation became complicated when the Falcons selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth pick in that year’s draft, signaling a shift in the team’s long-term plans at quarterback.
Falcons to Release Kirk Cousins as Team Commits to Michael Penix Jr.Cousins’ Struggles and Falcons’ Commitment Highlight Transition At Quarterback Position
During his time with Atlanta, Cousins faced struggles on the field. He was primarily a backup this past season while Penix started, except during Penix’s injury spell, when Cousins started eight of ten games. Across 24 games with the Falcons, Cousins threw for 5,229 yards, 28 touchdowns, 21 interceptions, and completed 65 percent of his passes, reflecting inconsistent performance.
The move demonstrates Atlanta’s commitment to Penix despite his recurring knee injuries. Cunningham emphasized that releasing Cousins was a professional courtesy, ensuring the quarterback could approach free agency with certainty.
Cousins’ release closes a challenging chapter in Atlanta, highlighting the difficulty of balancing veteran contracts with the development of younger players. As free agency approaches, Cousins will have the chance to explore new opportunities, while the Falcons continue shaping their roster with an eye toward the future at quarterback.
