The NFL stripped a 2025 fifth-round draft pick from the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday for violations of the league’s anti-tampering policy in their signing of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins.
The franchise was also docked $250,000, and General Manager Terry Fontenot was fined an additional $50,000.
Tom Pelissero noted that the fines brought down on the team are “considered logistical/administrative” and include such infractions as preparing travel arrangements after terms were agreed to.
It certainly helped Atlanta’s case that the accusations did not pertain to contact between the Falcons and Cousins before the negotiating window was open.
The NFL is docking the #Falcons a 2025 fifth-round pick for violating the league’s anti-tampering policy with Kirk Cousins, Darnell Mooney and Charlie Woerner. The team is also being fined $250,000 and GM Terry Fontenot is being fined $50,000.
The violations are considered… pic.twitter.com/fa7cHnHXWu
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 13, 2024
Pelissero credited this knowledge to sources close to the situation.
Considering what could have befallen the team after it’s pursuit of Cousins, the league’s punishment is mild to the extreme.
NFL policy allows clubs to negotiate with certified agents of potential signees during the official two-day period.
However, direct contact with the player and anyone affiliated with the franchise is expressly forbidden, and agreements on travel arrangements and other issues are not permitted.
Atlanta Falcons officials admitted to improper contact concerning travel and other logistical issues with unrestricted free agents Kirk Cousins, Darnell Mooney and Charlie Woerner before the two-day negotiating period.
It is difficult to see this punishment as anything more than the proverbial slap on the wrist for the team.
After all, it was eight years ago when the NFL yanked a third-round draft choice from Kansas City for its pursuit of Eagles receiver Jeremy Maclin during the window.
In this case, the team spoke directly to the player.
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