Kirk Cousins met with Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank to talk about his future. No decision has been made yet, but Cousins made one thing clear—he wants to start in 2025.
That’s a problem. The Atlanta Falcons just benched Kirk Cousins for Michael Penix Jr. at the end of last season. They made their choice. So why are they holding onto Cousins? If they don’t plan to start him, what’s the point?
The Atlanta Falcons could trade Kirk Cousins, but not before June 1
This isn’t about keeping Kirk Cousins. It’s about the numbers. Cutting him now would cost the Atlanta Falcons a brutal $40 million in dead cap. If they wait until June 1 to trade him, they save money and lessen the financial hit.
That’s the only logical reason he’s still here. The Falcons don’t want to outright release him. They’re stalling, hoping a quarterback-needy team panics closer to the trade deadline.
Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million deal last offseason. His contract includes a $10 million roster bonus due March 17 and a $27.5 million base salary for 2025. The financials make it clear—Atlanta won’t cut him. They’ll wait for the right trade offer.
If the Atlanta Falcons are serious about Michael Penix Jr., why keep Kirk Cousins?
The Atlanta Falcons made their move last season. They benched Kirk Cousins for Michael Penix Jr. in the final three games. That’s not a minor decision. That’s a statement.
Penix threw for 775 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions. Not perfect, but enough for the Atlanta Falcons to commit to him. So what happens if they hold onto Cousins? Do they bench him, paying him nearly $40 million to sit? Do they start him and kill Penix’s momentum? Neither option makes sense.
Cousins is a four-time Pro Bowler. He still has value. That’s why
The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reported that teams have asked about him.
If a team like the Cleveland Browns gets desperate, a deal could happen. But right now, the Falcons are playing a waiting game—hoping someone makes them an offer they can’t refuse.
Read More: Christian McCaffrey’s wife Olivia Culpo faces house fire crisis as firefighters battle the blazeCatch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!The TOI Sports Desk excels in a myriad of roles that capture the ...
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