Kirk Cousins, the experienced quarterback who signed with the Atlanta Falcons during the 2024 offseason, is currently facing a pivotal moment in his career. Following a serious Achilles injury in 2023 and a challenging season with the Falcons in 2024, his prospects with the team remain unclear.

As the NFL approaches its offseason, attention is focused on the 36-year-old quarterback, who is determined to demonstrate that he still possesses significant talent and potential on the field.

A Turbulent 2024 Season: An Evolution in the Falcons’ Quarterback Dynamics

Cousins’ experience with the Atlanta Falcons has been marked by significant fluctuations. After departing from the Minnesota Vikings to join Atlanta in the offseason, he secured a four-year, $180 million contract, aiming to revitalize his career. However, his journey took an unforeseen turn when the Falcons selected first-round rookie Michael Penix Jr.

in the 2024 NFL Draft, who quickly assumed the starting quarterback position. Penix, a talented left-handed player, demonstrated considerable promise, establishing himself as the franchise’s future quarterback. 

Despite this development, Cousins retained the starting role for a substantial portion of the 2024 season. Although he exhibited moments of excellence, his performance declined sharply towards the season’s conclusion.

Following a troubling stretch in which he recorded only one touchdown against nine interceptions over five games, Cousins was replaced by Penix, who proved his capability to lead the team. This transition has cast doubt on Cousins’ future with the Falcons.

At 36 years old, recovering from an Achilles injury, and potentially facing a backup role for the first time in over ten years, his status within the organization remains precarious. The critical question now is whether he will continue with the Falcons or pursue opportunities elsewhere in the NFL.

Kirk Cousins Prioritizes Well-Being During Times of Uncertainty

In a recent discussion on GMFB: Overtime, Cousins openly addressed his future, highlighting that his main priority is to fully recover his health. The journey to heal from his torn Achilles in 2023 has been challenging, and he is dedicated to being physically ready for the next phase of his career.

Cousins expressed confidence in his abilities, stating, “I definitely feel like I have a lot of good football left in me,” while acknowledging the uncertainty ahead. He emphasized that his immediate focus is on achieving optimal health, particularly as he utilizes the off-season to rehabilitate his body, noting that he cannot contribute effectively to any team if he is not in peak condition.

Although the 2023 Achilles injury sidelined him for a significant portion of the season, he returned in 2024, facing further obstacles, including a shoulder and elbow injury. Despite these challenges, Cousins remains optimistic, asserting that while his Achilles has healed well, ongoing issues with his right ankle and other injuries impacted his performance in the latter part of the season.

Cousins remarked on the successful healing of his Achilles, noting that while he experienced some challenges with his right ankle, the Achilles itself recovered well. He mentioned that despite the ankle not being in perfect condition, the team maintained a 6-3 record and he was performing effectively, acknowledging that perfection is unattainable in the league.

However, after sustaining a significant hit to his right shoulder and elbow against the Saints in Week 10, he faced additional challenges. With the season concluded, Cousins is eager to focus on rest and complete recovery, aiming to regain his former self and approach the NFL with renewed perspective.

Kirk Cousins: Will He Be a Backup or a Starter in 2025?

Cousins faces uncertainty regarding his future with the Falcons, raising the pivotal question of whether he will continue in Atlanta or seek a new team. At 36, he may confront the possibility of becoming a backup quarterback for the first time since 2014.

His contract, which has three years left, complicates a swift departure, as the Falcons would incur significant financial penalties, including a $40 million cap hit in 2025 and $27.5 million in guaranteed salary. Releasing or trading him before June 1 would result in $12.5 million in dead money, severely impacting the team’s financial flexibility. 

Nevertheless, the Falcons could consider parting ways with Cousins by releasing him before the fifth day of the 2025 league year, avoiding a $10 million signing bonus for the 2026 season. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport has indicated that a release is a likely scenario, especially if the Falcons are committed to Penix as their future quarterback.

Regarding Cousins’ overall NFL prospects, his strong performance in early 2024, coupled with his veteran experience, may attract interest from teams seeking a dependable quarterback. If he can demonstrate his health and competitive ability, several franchises might view the former Pro Bowler as a viable starting option.

Cousins emphasizes the importance of maintaining motivation and concentrating on aspects within his control. With the conclusion of the season, he recognizes the opportunity to dedicate time and effort to rehabilitate his ankle, shoulder, and elbow. He believes that successfully addressing these injuries will provide him with a renewed sense of purpose in his professional football career.

Expert Editorial Comment

As the offseason progresses, Kirk Cousins is entering a significant phase of introspection and rehabilitation. The ambiguity regarding his future with the Falcons is challenging, yet Cousins is resolute in demonstrating his value to an NFL franchise. With a strong emphasis on his health and a revitalized sense of direction, he is optimistic that a “new chapter” in his NFL journey is on the horizon.

Regardless of whether he stays in Atlanta or moves to a different team, Cousins is committed to continuing his career. He believes firmly in his ability and resolve to make a meaningful impact on a team once more.

The upcoming months will be crucial for the seasoned quarterback as he recuperates from injuries and considers his prospects for the 2025 season. Although his status with the Falcons remains unclear, it is evident that Kirk Cousins is far from finished.