The Atlanta Falcons are expected to release quarterback Kirk Cousins before a $10 million roster bonus is due in March 2025. This decision comes after the team benched Cousins in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. The move could lead Cousins to become a free agent, as his contract includes a no-trade clause, making a trade unlikely. The Falcons face a significant financial impact due to the dead cap space associated with Cousins' contract.
The Atlanta Falcons are reportedly set to release veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins before a $10 million roster bonus is due in March 2025. This decision comes after Cousins was benched in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr., signaling a shift in the team's quarterback strategy. The move has significant financial implications for the Falcons, as Cousins' contract includes a substantial dead cap hit. With a no-trade clause in his contract, Cousins' future in the NFL remains uncertain, as the team is unlikely to find trade partners willing to absorb his salary.
Kirk Cousins' departure from the Atlanta Falcons appears imminent as the team plans to release him before a $10 million roster bonus becomes due on March 17, 2025. The decision follows the team's choice to bench Cousins in favor of rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who was drafted earlier this year. Cousins, who signed a four-year, $180 million deal with the Falcons, has a no-trade clause, which complicates any potential trade scenarios. As a result, the Falcons are expected to release him outright, despite the significant financial implications. Releasing Cousins would leave the Falcons with a dead cap hit of $65 million, although designating him as a post-June 1 release could spread the cap charge over two years, reducing the immediate impact to $40 million [1] [2].
The Falcons' decision to bench Cousins and promote Penix highlights the challenges teams face with quarterback succession planning. Atlanta drafted Penix with the No. 8 overall pick, just months after signing Cousins to a lucrative contract. This move was intended to secure the team's future at the quarterback position, but it has led to an unexpected shift in strategy. Former NFL super-agent Leigh Steinberg commented, "That must have been an excoriating decision for the coach and front office." The decision to bench Cousins has created instability and financial strain, as the team navigates the complexities of guaranteed contracts and succession planning [2].
As Kirk Cousins faces the prospect of becoming a free agent, his future in the NFL remains uncertain. The veteran quarterback's performance this season, including 18 touchdowns and 16 interceptions, led to his benching. Despite the challenges, Cousins could become an attractive option for teams seeking a bridge quarterback. Potential suitors include the New York Giants, Tennessee Titans, Indianapolis Colts, New Orleans Saints, and Las Vegas Raiders. However, Cousins' no-trade clause and high salary demands may limit his options. As the offseason approaches, Cousins will likely evaluate offers from teams in need of experienced leadership at the quarterback position [1] [3].
The Atlanta Falcons' decision to part ways with Kirk Cousins before his $10 million roster bonus is due marks a significant shift in the team's quarterback strategy. With rookie Michael Penix Jr. taking the helm, the Falcons are navigating the complexities of succession planning and financial implications. Cousins, who has a no-trade clause, is expected to become a free agent, opening up possibilities for teams in need of experienced quarterback leadership. As the offseason approaches, the NFL landscape may see shifts as teams evaluate their quarterback options in light of Cousins' availability.
"That must have been an excoriating decision for the coach and front office." - Leigh Steinberg
"There's a standard that I have for myself, that the team has for me, that, unfortunately, I wasn't playing up to that standard consistently enough." - Kirk Cousins