Overview

• Michael Penix Jr. has been officially named the Falcons' starting quarterback for the 2025 season, with the team prioritizing his development as their franchise player.
• Kirk Cousins has reportedly requested to be released, but the Falcons have not committed to this course of action, leaving his status uncertain.
• The Falcons remain open to trading Cousins but only under favorable terms, with the Cleveland Browns emerging as a potential destination despite financial and contractual hurdles.
• Falcons owner Arthur Blank stated the team is prepared to keep Cousins as a high-paid backup, citing the importance of having reliable quarterback depth.
• Cousins' no-trade clause and $27.5 million salary for 2025 complicate efforts to move him, with limited interest from other teams further stalling progress.