The anticipated breakup between Kirk Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons is rapidly approaching, with the quarterback’s future in Atlanta coming to a head before his $10 million roster bonus is due on March 17. The situation, according to NFL executives, seems all but finalized: Cousins is expected to be released by the Falcons ahead of the deadline, marking the second consecutive offseason in which he will become a free agent. This comes after months of turmoil and confusion between the four-time Pro Bowler and his current team.
The End of Cousins’ Falcons Tenure
Kirk Cousins, who signed a massive four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons, has seen his relationship with the team sour. The tipping point came on draft night when the Falcons made the surprise decision to select Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, effectively signaling that the future of the quarterback position was no longer in Cousins’ hands. This move blindsided the veteran quarterback, who had hoped the Falcons would select a player to help improve the team immediately, not one who could replace him down the line.
Adding to the tension, the Falcons recently benched Cousins in favor of Penix, despite Cousins being the face of the franchise and one of the league’s top passers. His turnover issues, including a league-leading 16 interceptions and 12 fumbles (tied for the most in the NFL), were cited by head coach Raheem Morris as the primary reasons for the change. Despite these struggles, Cousins has insisted he hasn’t “forgotten how to play quarterback” and remains confident in his abilities.
Why the Falcons Are Likely to Release Cousins
The primary factor driving the separation is Cousins’ no-trade clause. Executives across the NFL believe Cousins holds all the leverage in this situation, with no expectation that he will cooperate in a trade. Even though Atlanta could have attempted to facilitate a trade, the fractured relationship with Cousins and the lack of a suitable landing spot make such a scenario unlikely. With Penix’s relatively low salary cap hit in 2025 ($5.2 million), the Falcons are expected to release Cousins, avoiding the hefty roster bonus due in March.
For context, this mirrors a similar situation the Denver Broncos faced last offseason when they were forced to release Russell Wilson before his $37 million salary for 2025 became guaranteed. Just like Cousins, Wilson’s release freed up space for the team to make moves and avoid further financial obligations.
Cousins’ release would make him a free agent once again, opening the door for him to choose his next destination. With the Falcons having already paid him $90 million for just 14 games, there is little incentive to keep him on the roster, especially with the emergence of Penix.
What’s Next for Kirk Cousins?
Despite the disappointing end to his time in Atlanta, Cousins remains a valuable asset for any team in need of a quarterback. Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Jets, and Las Vegas Raiders may come calling for the experienced passer. The lack of quality quarterbacks available this offseason, combined with Cousins’ substantial contract already paid by the Falcons, makes him a potential bargain for teams seeking a veteran signal-caller on a budget.
For Cousins, his future beyond this season is uncertain. He’s set to become one of the most coveted free-agent quarterbacks in 2025, with many believing he can still play at a high level. Given his past performances, including an impressive 2022 season in which he led the Minnesota Vikings to the playoffs, many believe Cousins still has plenty left in the tank.
Falcons’ Future and Penix’s Role
While Cousins’ departure is looming, the Falcons are looking to the future with Penix, their newly anointed starting quarterback. Penix, who was drafted with the eighth overall pick, will now be given the opportunity to lead the offense for the remainder of the season, starting with a crucial game against the struggling New York Giants. The Falcons (7-7) are still in the playoff race in the NFC South, despite being benched at a pivotal moment in the season.
Penix’s low salary cap hit in 2025 allows the Falcons to rebuild around him, and the hope is that he can live up to the expectations set by his high draft position. However, the question remains whether he will be able to lead the team to a postseason berth, given the high stakes and limited experience at the professional level.
Conclusion: A New Beginning for Cousins
Kirk Cousins’ exit from Atlanta is inevitable, and as the March 17 deadline approaches, all signs point toward the Falcons parting ways with the veteran quarterback. For Cousins, this will mark yet another fresh start in his long and successful career, likely in a new city where he can continue to chase championships. The lack of quality quarterbacks on the market means that Cousins could find himself in high demand come 2025.
While the breakup with the Falcons was far from ideal, the NFL world is watching closely as Cousins and Penix embark on new chapters in their careers. Stay tuned for updates on Cousins’ next move, as he remains one of the most intriguing quarterbacks available this offseason.
