Financial Considerations
The Falcons chose to retain quarterback Kirk Cousins despite incurring a $10 million cap hit for a player unlikely to contribute on the field. The decision comes as the team weighs the financial impact versus potential future benefits.
Emerging Trade Discussions
Trade talks have intensified with negotiations hinting at compensation involving a third-round draft pick. Cousins, who was sidelined in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr after Week 15, has been vocal about his desire for a starting role elsewhere, setting the stage for potential movement despite the substantial contract.
Performance and Health Overview
Since signing a four-year, $180 million deal last March, Cousins has experienced a rollercoaster season. Over the course of the campaign, he completed 66.9% of his passes for 3,508 yards, registering 18 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. In his final stretch of five starts, his output dipped significantly to one touchdown and nine interceptions during a 1-4 run, leading to questions about his current form. Cousins has attributed his struggles to injuries involving his right elbow and shoulder sustained during Week 10, though the team maintained that he was cleared to play soon after and consistently listed as available.
Looking Ahead
The Falcons remain committed to their backup plan with Penix, confident in the depth of the roster. However, with Cousins expressing disinterest in a reserve role, the organization appears ready to explore trade opportunities that could yield a more valuable asset than originally anticipated in return for the veteran quarterback.
