Kirk Cousins' Future in Atlanta: A $10 Million Decision

Kirk Cousins is still a Falcon, at least for the next few years. The Atlanta Falcons have chosen to keep Cousins on their team, which means his $10 million roster bonus for 2026 is now guaranteed. This decision comes after a series of events that have left many wondering about Cousins' future. The Falcons' decision to keep Cousins is not as straightforward as it seems. There's a catch: if Cousins plays for another team in 2026, that team will have to cover part or all of the $10 million bonus. This clause, known as offset language, gives the Falcons some financial flexibility. Cousins' journey with the Falcons has been eventful. He signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the team after recovering from an Achilles tear. However, the Falcons surprised everyone by drafting Michael Penix Jr. just a month later. This move raised questions about Cousins' role in the team. Despite the uncertainty, Cousins started the first 14 games of the 2024 season. He threw for 3, 508 yards, 18 touchdowns, and a league-leading 16 interceptions. The Falcons, with a 7-7 record, decided to name Penix the starter for the final three games. Unfortunately, this change didn't lead to a playoff spot for the team. Cousins is now entering his age-37 season with a $27. 5 million salary and a $40 million cap hit. It's likely that he will be the backup to Penix. This situation raises questions about the Falcons' long-term plans and Cousins' future in the NFL. The Falcons' decision to keep Cousins is a strategic move. It allows them to maintain a veteran presence on the team while also investing in a younger quarterback. However, it also leaves room for speculation about Cousins' future and the team's direction.