Despite missing the playoffs, the Atlanta Falcons have found their quarterback of both the present and future in Michael Penix. However, Penix’s rise has left Kirk Cousins‘ future with the team uncertain.
The Falcons are actively trying to trade Cousins, but his contract could complicate matters. If a trade doesn’t materialize, the team isn’t planning to release him, according to Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network.
“As I understand it, the Falcons aren’t just going to cut him. They’ll listen to trade offers but want to get something in return,” Wolfe explained. “They’re open to bringing him back as a backup if a trade doesn’t happen.”
Paying Cousins nearly $30 million to serve as a backup would be a significant cost, but the Falcons aren’t willing to let him go for nothing. While Cousins’ trade value remains uncertain due to his performance and contract, Atlanta is prepared to wait for the right deal, even if it means extending into the 2025 season.
Falcons’ head coach Raheem Morris has endorsed the idea of Cousins serving as Penix’s backup, even calling him “elite” in that role, per Andrew Siciliano.
Though his time with the Falcons may not be remembered fondly, Cousins remains a sought-after quarterback in the NFL. Just two years removed from a Pro Bowl season with over 4,500 yards and 29 touchdowns, Cousins is still a strong, albeit expensive, option for any team in need of a quarterback.
For now, the Falcons plan to integrate Penix fully into their offense over the offseason while continuing to search for the best possible trade for Cousins.
