Quarterback play has been Atlanta’s biggest weakness, particularly last year. Despite having a young and talented roster poised to end their postseason drought in a weak division, Desmond Ridder often hindered the team’s progress.
With the addition of Kirk Cousins, signed for $180 million in free agency, this excuse is no longer valid. The team expects Cousins to significantly elevate their performance.
The Falcons have invested three top 10 picks in skill players—Kyle Pitts, Drake London, and Bijan Robinson—but haven’t seen the expected returns. It’s now up to Zac Robinson and Cousins to help these players reach their potential.
Kirk Cousins is arguably the most crucial player for Atlanta this year, expected to transform the underachieving roster into a playoff contender. This makes sense why PFF named him the team’s X-factor.
Cousins, part of Atlanta’s expensive quarterback overhaul, was having a career year before tearing his Achilles last season. In eight games, he posted an 85.1 passing grade with 18 touchdowns. His proficiency in play action should mesh well with running back Bijan Robinson and the offensive line.
However, one could argue that “X-Factor” should be reserved for unknown entities, which Cousins is not. The real uncertainty lies with the Falcons’ defense. Despite Ryan Nielsen’s success last year, the departure of the team’s co-sack leaders and questions about the personnel remain.
With a defensive front and secondary full of young, unproven players, the Falcons’ season is more likely to be derailed by defensive shortcomings than by Cousins.
