The Atlanta Falcons are firmly establishing a new direction for their franchise as they prepare to enter the 2025 season. The team has announced its commitment to Michael Penix Jr. as the starting quarterback, following his impressive performance after being drafted eighth overall in April. This decision comes as the Falcons aim to build a competitive roster around their promising rookie.
In a recent statement, Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot indicated the team’s willingness to retain veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins as Penix’s backup for another season. Despite Cousins' struggles, including a disappointing stretch that led to his benching in Week 16, the organization believes that maintaining him in a secondary role could provide stability as they transition to a new starting quarterback.
Cousins, who signed a four-year, $180 million contract in March — with $90 million guaranteed over the first two years — holds a no-trade clause, complicating any potential changes. If the Falcons were to release him before the start of the 2025 league year, they would incur a staggering $65 million in dead money against their salary cap. Additionally, trading Cousins presents its own challenges, as the team would still be responsible for $37.5 million of remaining proration.
Fontenot addressed the speculation surrounding Cousins’ future with the team, particularly as March 17 approaches, when he is due a $10 million roster bonus. Recent reports from ESPN's Adam Schefter suggested that the Falcons were likely to cut Cousins, but Fontenot dismissed those claims, emphasizing that the team had planned for Cousins to remain part of their roster.
"So now what happens is we had to accelerate that plan and go to Mike earlier and yet the allocation of the quarterback position — the cap allocation — is we're eighth in the league." – Terry Fontenot
During the 2024 season, Penix Jr. stepped up as the starting quarterback after Cousins' benching and played nine games. Although the team finished with an 8-9 record and missed the playoffs, Penix's performance provided a glimpse of hope for Falcons fans. His ability to lead and improve during his tenure has undoubtedly influenced the decision to make him the starting quarterback moving forward.
Fontenot acknowledged the complexity of Cousins’ situation but reiterated his belief in open communication among all parties involved.
"Everyone would have to be good with it, from his camp, his supporters, [Cousins' agent] Mike McCartney, Kirk Cousins, us, the other team," – Terry Fontenot
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Cousins, Fontenot expressed confidence in navigating the situation and ensuring that it aligns with the team's overall strategy.
"We will take those things as they come." – Terry Fontenot
The Atlanta Falcons are poised for an intriguing offseason. With Penix Jr. leading the charge and Cousins potentially providing veteran support, the team aims to establish a solid foundation for future success. As they look ahead, fans will be watching closely how these decisions unfold and shape the team’s trajectory in the coming years.
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