Kirk Cousins’ time with the Falcons is ending as the team plans to release him on March 11, marking the start of the new league year. General manager Ian Cunningham confirmed that Cousins will become an unrestricted free agent. This decision follows Cousins’ four-year, $180 million contract signed in March 2024, where he earned $100 million over 22 starts, recording a 12-10 record with 28 touchdown passes.
The Falcons will incur a $24.6 million cap hit through June, with future dead money totaling $22.5 million in 2026 and $12.5 million in 2027. His contract includes a $10 million offset if he signs elsewhere for a similar amount. Cousins’ tenure was complicated by the drafting of quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who replaced him during his rookie season after Cousins faced injuries.
With changes in management, including the firing of former GM Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris, Cousins’ substantial contract became untenable. At 37, he is now a sought-after option in a weak quarterback free-agent market, with teams like the Steelers, Vikings, and Colts interested. Meanwhile, the Falcons have not committed to making Penix their starting quarterback as they explore other veteran options.
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