Falcons Weigh Kirk Cousins' Future as Backup Quarterback

Atlanta's GM says the team is comfortable keeping Cousins despite his $27.5M salary, but trade options remain under consideration.

Kirk Cousins, benched late in the 2024 season, is set to remain with the Falcons as a high-paid backup to rookie Michael Penix Jr., according to GM Terry Fontenot.
Cousins' contract includes $27.5 million in guaranteed salary for 2025, and releasing him before March 12 would result in a $65 million dead cap hit for Atlanta.
The Falcons are open to trade offers for Cousins, though his no-trade clause and high salary complicate the possibility of a deal.
Fontenot emphasized that Cousins has been a supportive teammate and praised his professionalism despite his struggles on the field, including a league-high 16 interceptions in 2024.
Michael Penix Jr., the Falcons' 2024 first-round pick, has been named the team's starting quarterback moving forward after showing promise in late-season starts.