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Cousins' Falcons Era Ends: What's Next?
8 Feb
Summary
- Kirk Cousins expected to be cut by Atlanta before March.
- Contract restructured, creating $32.9M difference for Falcons.
- Cousins could explore NFL return, TV analyst role, or retirement.
Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins is widely expected to be released by the Atlanta Falcons prior to the start of the new league year in March 2026. This anticipated move follows a contract restructure initiated in January 2026, which altered his 2026 base salary significantly. The adjustments make it considerably easier for the Falcons to sever ties with the quarterback.
Cousins joined Atlanta on a substantial four-year, $180 million contract in the offseason preceding the 2024 NFL season. His tenure with the team, however, was marked by challenges, including a benching in Week 16 of the 2024 season due to performance issues and an undisclosed injury. He returned as a starter in 2025 when injuries impacted Michael Penix Jr., finishing the season with a 5-3 record. Despite his desire to continue playing in 2026, the Falcons' new leadership is expected to move on.
Potential future paths for Cousins include a return to the Minnesota Vikings, where he previously played for six seasons, or a move into broadcasting. He has previously appeared as a guest analyst for "The NFL Today" during the playoffs. Retirement remains another option if other opportunities do not materialize.
