Overview
- Multiple outlets citing The Athletic report Atlanta plans an early-March release to avoid a roughly $68 million guarantee that would vest on March 13.
- The Falcons are open to re-signing Cousins on a reduced deal if he does not find a more appealing opportunity elsewhere.
- New head coach Kevin Stefanski, who previously coached Cousins in Minnesota, acknowledged their relationship but offered no indication on the quarterback’s future.
- Michael Penix Jr. continues knee rehabilitation and is expected to retake the starting job when healthy, creating a potential short-term bridge role if Cousins returns.
- Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million contract in 2024 that was reworked in January; he lost the job to Penix in 2024 and returned in 2025 due to injuries.