Falcons Face Decision on Kirk Cousins After Benching for Rookie Michael Penix Jr.

Atlanta may trade or release Cousins this offseason, but his costly contract and poor performance complicate potential moves.

The Atlanta Falcons benched Kirk Cousins in favor of rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. before Week 16, signaling a likely end to Cousins' tenure with the team after just one season.
Cousins has struggled this season, throwing a career-high 16 interceptions in 14 starts, including a stretch of nine interceptions and just one touchdown from Weeks 10 to 15.
NFL executives believe the Falcons would need to absorb a significant portion of Cousins' $27.5 million guaranteed 2025 salary to trade him, with potential compensation limited to a day-three draft pick.
Cousins' contract includes a no-trade clause and a $10 million roster bonus for 2026 that activates on March 17, creating urgency for Atlanta to make a decision before that date.
Speculation about Cousins' next team includes quarterback-needy franchises like the Titans, Raiders, Jets, and Giants, while the 49ers and Vikings are seen as long-shot possibilities due to past connections.