Kirk Cousins' Future Takes Shape Amid Restructured Contract with Falcons
Atlanta's quarterback Kirk Cousins has expressed uncertainty about his future in the NFL following the team's recent win over the Saints. However, a new development suggests that Cousins' career path may be taking shape, one that could potentially lead him away from the Atlanta Falcons.
According to ESPN's Field Yates, Cousins and the Falcons have agreed to restructure his contract, making it easier for the franchise to release him ahead of the free agency period. The key provision in this restructuring is a guarantee of $67.9 million for the 2027 season, which vests on March 13. Given the high risk of the Falcons or any team acquiring Cousins via trade before that date being saddled with this amount, it's likely that a decision on his future will be made sooner rather than later.
Cousins' time with the Falcons has been marked by some promising performances, particularly after quarterback Michael Penix Jr. suffered an ACL injury in Week 11. In the final seven games of the season, Cousins led the team to victories in five of those contests, accumulating 1,291 yards, nine touchdowns, and four interceptions.
The Minnesota Vikings, who parted ways with Cousins in 2024, are now reportedly exploring options to strengthen their quarterback room through trade or free agency. This could potentially rekindle interest in Cousins, given his experience and success in the NFL. The Vikings' coaching staff may view a veteran signal-caller like Cousins as a means to address potential shortcomings in their current quarterback play.
The Falcons' decision to restructure Cousins' contract raises questions about their long-term plans for him. Will they seek to retain him, or will he be released ahead of the free agency period? The answer to this question may become clearer soon, and it could have significant implications for both the Falcons and potential suitor teams in the market.
Atlanta's quarterback Kirk Cousins has expressed uncertainty about his future in the NFL following the team's recent win over the Saints. However, a new development suggests that Cousins' career path may be taking shape, one that could potentially lead him away from the Atlanta Falcons.
According to ESPN's Field Yates, Cousins and the Falcons have agreed to restructure his contract, making it easier for the franchise to release him ahead of the free agency period. The key provision in this restructuring is a guarantee of $67.9 million for the 2027 season, which vests on March 13. Given the high risk of the Falcons or any team acquiring Cousins via trade before that date being saddled with this amount, it's likely that a decision on his future will be made sooner rather than later.
Cousins' time with the Falcons has been marked by some promising performances, particularly after quarterback Michael Penix Jr. suffered an ACL injury in Week 11. In the final seven games of the season, Cousins led the team to victories in five of those contests, accumulating 1,291 yards, nine touchdowns, and four interceptions.
The Minnesota Vikings, who parted ways with Cousins in 2024, are now reportedly exploring options to strengthen their quarterback room through trade or free agency. This could potentially rekindle interest in Cousins, given his experience and success in the NFL. The Vikings' coaching staff may view a veteran signal-caller like Cousins as a means to address potential shortcomings in their current quarterback play.
The Falcons' decision to restructure Cousins' contract raises questions about their long-term plans for him. Will they seek to retain him, or will he be released ahead of the free agency period? The answer to this question may become clearer soon, and it could have significant implications for both the Falcons and potential suitor teams in the market.