Kirk Cousins Shifts Focus Away from Future as Falcons Grapple with Cap Hit Challenges
Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins finds himself at a crossroads with the Atlanta Falcons, as the team’s playoff hopes have evaporated. However, the remainder of the season holds significance for both Cousins and his teammates, who are vying for their futures—whether in Atlanta or beyond. As trade rumors swirled around the 37-year-old quarterback during the offseason, his recent strong performances have reignited speculation about his future once again. Yet, Cousins is keeping his focus firmly on the present.
Cousins Stays Present-Minded
“Those are kind of March questions. We’re in December, we just have to play our schedule here, get through this, the next three games,” Cousins remarked in an exclusive interview. He emphasizes the importance of current performance, stating, “If you play football well, and if you win, those kinds of conversations will take care of themselves.” For Cousins, the immediate goal is clear: “My focus is on these next three weeks, and then we will have those March conversations in March.”
The Falcons Face a Pivotal Offseason
With playoff contention slipping away, the Falcons’ organization is already looking ahead, but key decisions loom. One pressing question is the future of head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot. Morris, who holds a career record of 34-56, has struggled since returning to the Falcons, posting a disappointing 13-18 record. Under his leadership, the team has a bleak 7-15 mark since November 2024. Should the Falcons decide to part ways with Morris, Fontenot’s own position could be at stake, particularly given the lack of a winning season during his tenure and his history of hiring two head coaches.
Cousins’ Contract and Cap Hit Dilemma
Cousins is under contract for two more years, but there’s a potential out in his deal this spring, allowing the Falcons to save a substantial $35 million in cap space if they choose to release him. Remaining on the roster would mean a staggering $57 million cap hit, an untenable figure for a backup quarterback. Additionally, uncertainty surrounds quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who is recovering from ACL surgery and may not be ready to start the 2026 season. These financial variables, coupled with leadership changes, will heavily influence whether Cousins remains in Atlanta for a third year.
Giving Back to the Community
Beyond football, Cousins is making an impact in the Atlanta community this holiday season. In a partnership with Mercedes-Benz, he is participating in the “Holidays with Love” campaign, where the car company is donating 12 eSprinter vans to various organizations. Cousins has chosen to donate one of these vans to City of Refuge, a local nonprofit focused on helping individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency.
“I was able to read the book on Bruce Deel who founded City of Refuge. I can go on and on about the work they do. I just really like their model,” Cousins shared. The organization, located just blocks from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, aims to improve health and wellness, housing, job training, and youth development for Atlanta families.
The “Holidays with Love” initiative has gained traction over the last two years, with notable ambassadors like Bijan Robinson and Matt Ryan also contributing to the cause. Robinson is supporting Atlanta Public Schools, while Ryan has selected Raising Expectations Inc. for his donation.
As the Falcons navigate a tumultuous season, Cousins remains committed to his team and the community, while his future in Atlanta hangs in the balance.
