Falcons Set to Release Kirk Cousins Before $10M Bonus
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is facing an uncertain future with the team. Reports from ESPN indicate that the Falcons are likely to release Cousins before he is due a $10 million roster bonus for the 2026 season, which becomes guaranteed on March 17, 2025. This decision comes after Cousins lost his starting position and struggled with performance during the past season.
Uncertainty Surrounding Cousins’ Release
While it seems inevitable that the Falcons will part ways with Cousins, there is still speculation within the organization about the decision. CBS Sports Lead NFL Insider Jonathan Jones mentioned that there are conflicting opinions among league executives regarding whether the Falcons will release Cousins. The team faces a challenging financial situation, with potential dead-money cap hits of $65 million or $40 million depending on the release designation.
Challenges in Finding Trade Partners
Despite the Falcons’ preference to trade Cousins and receive some compensation in return, finding a willing partner may prove difficult. Cousins’ hefty contract, including significant base salaries and roster bonuses in the upcoming seasons, coupled with his recent performance decline, may deter potential suitors. His benching in favor of rookie Michael Penix further complicates the situation.
Parallels with Past Player Releases
The situation with Kirk Cousins mirrors past instances in the NFL, such as Russell Wilson’s release by the Broncos and subsequent signing with the Steelers for a reduced salary. The uncertain future for Cousins highlights the unpredictable nature of professional sports and the challenges faced by teams in managing player contracts and performance expectations.
In the fast-paced world of professional football, the fate of players like Kirk Cousins remains uncertain despite their previous successes. The pressures of performance, financial considerations, and team dynamics all play a role in determining the future of a player’s career. As fans, we can only watch and wait to see how this situation unfolds, knowing that the outcome will have a lasting impact on the Atlanta Falcons and the broader NFL landscape.