Kirk Cousins, former Vikings quarterback, may find himself at a crossroads as the Atlanta Falcons consider options regarding his future after a disappointing season. The Falcons, despite a hot start, ended up benched Cousins in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. with notable struggles in the latter half. Meanwhile, the Jets, influenced by ex-Vikings GM Rick Spielman, could be a potential landing spot for Cousins if Aaron Rodgers departs New York. The Falcons face significant financial implications, with a $65 million dead cap hit looming should they cut him.
By the Numbers
- Cousins completed 69.1% of his passes with 2,328 yards and 17 touchdowns during his first nine games.
- He went 1-4 in the final stretch with 1,180 yards, 1 touchdown, and 9 interceptions before being benched.
- Cutting Cousins incurs a $65 million dead cap hit for the Falcons, while trading him reduces the hit to $37.5 million.
Yes, But
Cousins’ future is complicated; while he has shown potential, his decline with the Falcons raises doubts. Concerns about his performance can overshadow his past success with the Vikings, making teams cautious. Financially, the Falcons face real challenges, influencing their decision-making process significantly.
State of Play
- The Falcons are evaluating Cousins’ worth against a hefty dead cap hit.
- Speculation surrounds the Jets potentially pursuing Cousins if Rodgers leaves.
- Other teams, including the Vikings, are exploring quarterback options as the offseason approaches.
What’s Next
As the offseason unfolds, Cousins may be cut or traded, with the Jets appearing as a viable option if Rodgers exits. The financial decisions the Falcons make regarding Cousins will significantly shape their future quarterback landscape. Additionally, it’s likely that other quarterbacks, like Matthew Stafford, could enter the mix in Minnesota.
Bottom Line
Kirk Cousins stands at a pivotal moment, balancing past success with uncertain prospects as his contract situation unfolds. The decisions of the Falcons, combined with potential interest from the Jets, could dramatically alter the quarterback landscape as teams seek to solidify their positions ahead of the draft and free agency.