Atlanta Falcons to Release Kirk Cousins Two Years Into $180 Million Contract
ATLANTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons have made a decisive move to part ways with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, just two years after signing him to a lucrative four-year, $180 million contract. General Manager Ian Cunningham confirmed the decision at the NFL Scouting Combine on Tuesday, stating that the team will officially release Cousins once the new league year begins next month.
“I had already told Kirk of the team’s decision,” Cunningham said, emphasizing the respect owed to Cousins for his career contributions. “We owed that to him to allow some clarity going into free agency.” Cousins, who joined the Falcons after the Minnesota Vikings chose to move on by drafting J.J. McCarthy and signing Sam Darnold, was brought in with high expectations. His contract included $100 million guaranteed, underscoring the team’s initial commitment.
However, the Falcons’ plans shifted dramatically shortly after Cousins’ arrival. In a surprising move during the NFL Draft, Atlanta selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick, signaling a shift toward youth at the position. Penix, a promising talent, has since become the focal point of the Falcons’ quarterback strategy.
As the Falcons prepare for the upcoming season, the decision to cut Cousins reflects a broader trend in the NFL where teams increasingly prioritize developing younger quarterbacks with higher upside. The Falcons’ approach aligns with strategies outlined by the National Football League to balance veteran leadership with emerging talent.
Cousins’ tenure in Atlanta was marked by moments of solid performance but also inconsistency, which likely factored into the front office’s calculation. The move to release him also frees significant salary cap space, allowing the Falcons to invest more heavily in Penix and other key players.
Ian Cunningham’s announcement at the NFL Scouting Combine was met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts, many of whom debated the merits of moving on from a proven veteran.
Looking ahead, the Falcons will enter free agency with the opportunity to explore options at quarterback or bolster other areas of the roster. The team’s decision underscores the high-stakes nature of NFL roster management and the constant evolution required to remain competitive.
For more details on NFL player transactions and league policies, visit the NFL Players Association and the official NFL transactions page.
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