Kirk Cousins makes major decision over his Atlanta Falcons future after $180 million quarterback’s trade talk

KIRK Cousins seemed to drop a nugget concerning his future with the Atlanta Falcons.

The four-time NFL Pro Bowl quarterback has had trade rumors surrounding him after his disappointing 2024 season following signing a four-year, $180 million contract.

Getty

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins throws before a 2024 NFL game[/caption]

Getty

Cousins lost his starting role to then-rookie Michael Penix Jr. last December after throwing a league-leading 16 interceptions.

The veteran has hoped to be traded this offseason and has skipped OTAs amid a standoff with the team.

However, Cousins reported for the team’s mandatory minicamp on Tuesday.

The decision appeared to hint that the Falcons can count on the 36-year-old to play for the team in the upcoming season.

“We’re moving forward and it’s about how we as a team and as a quarterback room can be the best we can be in 2025,” Cousins told reporters.

The former Minnesota Vikings quarterback was then asked whether he’d be donning a different uniform in the league to pursue a starting job.

Cousins seemed to accept that the rest of the NFL‘s teams have their answers at the quarterback position.

“Obviously you’d love to play, but I’m not going to dwell on things that aren’t reality,” he responded.

Cousins led the Falcons to a 6-3 record before going 1-4 and seeing Penix take over the offense.

Atlanta went 1-2 with Penix as the starter for an 8-9 final record.

Cousins gave his support to Penix when asked about the second-year player who is set to start Week 1 in September.

“Michael’s gonna do great. He’s going to have a great career. He’s off to a great start,” he said.

“I’m just here to support him as he needs it.”

Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot shared that the team has been comfortable with keeping Cousins on the team as the backup.

However, head coach Raheem Morris revealed that the franchise was open to listening to trade offers regarding Cousins.

Getty

2024 first-round pick Michael Penix Jr. is expected to be the Falcons’ starting quarterback for the 2025 campaign[/caption]

Penix was drafted by the Falcons in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

He recorded three passing touchdowns against three interceptions for 775 yards in five games last season.

Atlanta will hope to make the playoffs for the first time since 2017.