Falcons Face Quarterback Dilemma as Cousins Weighs Future Options

As the Atlanta Falcons navigate the complexities of their quarterback situation, discussions about Kirk Cousins and his future intensified this week. During a media session in Flowery Branch, Georgia, Cousins reflected on his past experiences, drawing parallels between his high school career and his current circumstances in the NFL. “You play the best you can, you enjoy it, focus on the present, and you let the chips fall where they may,” he stated.

Although Cousins is under contract for two more seasons, he described this year as feeling like an “expiring contract.” Falcons head coach Raheem Morris has indicated that the option to retain Cousins beyond this season remains open. “Everything is on the table,” Morris said, suggesting that discussions regarding Cousins’ future will take place after the current season concludes.

Future Uncertainty for Cousins

The prospect of Cousins returning to Atlanta in 2026 seemed unlikely last offseason, especially after he requested a trade when benched for Michael Penix Jr. late in the 2024 season. Furthermore, Cousins is facing a significant cap hit of $57.5 million in 2026 and 2027, which would account for approximately 18 to 19 percent of the projected salary cap. “If it’s not guaranteed, it’s not guaranteed,” Cousins remarked, highlighting the nature of NFL contracts.

The Falcons are currently without a clear solution at quarterback. Cousins’ recent performance, including a notable 373-yard, three-touchdown game against Tampa Bay, indicates he still has much to offer, either in Atlanta or elsewhere. “This is a privilege to be out here, this is an opportunity, and I have a responsibility to do the best I can,” he emphasized.

Cousins stepped in for Penix after the latter sustained a knee injury on November 16 against the Panthers. The injury remains a concern as Penix’s recovery timeline casts doubt on his readiness for the start of next season. Even if healthy, he would be entering the season with limited preparation due to his injury history.

Penix’s Future and Morris’ Decisions

Morris has consistently expressed confidence in Penix as the “quarterback of the future.” However, the coach also acknowledged the need for caution given Penix’s injury background. With Morris himself facing scrutiny regarding his job security, the decision about Cousins may ultimately lie with a different leadership group.

The Falcons previously signed Cousins to a record-breaking free-agent contract in 2024, valued at up to $180 million. To date, they have paid him $100 million, but the financial implications remain significant. Over the next two seasons, Cousins would contribute a total of $115 million to the salary cap unless Atlanta opts for a post-June 1 cut, which would result in a $35 million dead-cap penalty.

Morris emphasized the need for a thorough evaluation at the end of the season. “We planned on the amount of years we put in his contract and hopefully potentially more,” he stated, indicating that the future will be addressed as the season wraps up.

Despite the uncertainties surrounding his situation, Cousins remains focused on the present. “I’ve played a lot of years on expiring contracts,” he noted. “You just focus on the here and now… But it’s December, so you can’t really go there yet.”

Throughout the season, Cousins has started five games, all while the team’s top wide receiver, Drake London, was sidelined due to injury. Although he ranks 33rd in the league in expected points added (EPA) per dropback, his performance has shown improvement over the past weeks.

Reflecting on his past, Cousins acknowledged the challenges he faced last season, including a five-game stretch with nine interceptions. “I never thought he wasn’t a valuable starting quarterback,” Morris remarked, referring to Cousins’ past struggles. The Falcons had started strong last season with a 6-3 record but faltered down the stretch.

As discussions about Cousins’ future continue, the Falcons must also contend with the pressing question of who will lead them at quarterback moving forward. With both Cousins and Penix in the mix, the team’s direction will be critical as they aim to return to contention in the NFC South.