Falcons to Release Kirk Cousins, Paving Way for Penix Jr.

The Atlanta Falcons are set to release quarterback Kirk Cousins on March 11, the first day of the new league year, according to general manager Ian Cunningham. The decision, communicated to Cousins and his agent Mike McCartney, comes as the team looks to provide clarity for the veteran quarterback as he enters free agency.

A Short-Lived Tenure in Atlanta

Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons in March 2024 after six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. However, the team subsequently drafted Michael Penix Jr. With the No. 8 overall pick, creating an immediate dynamic that Cousins reportedly found awkward .

2024 Season Performance and Injury

Cousins enjoyed a strong start to the 2024 season, including a standout performance against the Buccaneers where he threw for 509 yards, breaking Matt Ryan’s franchise record for passing yards in a single game . However, his performance waned in the following weeks, and he later lost the starting job to Penix Jr. Due to injury.

Financial Implications of the Release

The release will result in a $24.6 million cap figure for the Falcons through June. Dead money will then be $22.5 million in 2026 and $12.5 million in 2027. There is also $10 million in potential offsets if Cousins signs a contract for at least that amount with another team .

Looking Ahead: Penix Jr. And the Quarterback Market

With Cousins’ departure, Michael Penix Jr. Is expected to compete for the starting quarterback position. Cunningham stated that Penix is currently on track in his rehabilitation from a partially torn ACL .

Cousins, 37, now becomes a highly sought-after free agent, with teams like the Steelers, Vikings, and Colts potentially interested in his services . He expressed a desire to continue playing in 2026 after starting the final seven games of the 2025 season for an injured Penix Jr., posting a 5-2 record .