Whereas the Falcons might simply lower their losses with Kirk Cousins and launch him earlier than the start of the brand new league yr, there are different potential outcomes after he was benched in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. with the group combating for a playoff spot.
Based on NFL Community, the Falcons (7-7), who’re one sport behind the NFC South-leading Buccaneers, might find yourself holding Cousins as a backup for 2025 since Penix will likely be on his rookie contract, permitting the group to higher deal with having such an costly No. 2.
Protecting Cousins, 36, will not be “off the table,” per the report.
Alternatively, Cousins might choose to retire after he bombed within the first season of a four-year, $180 million contract that included $90 million assured at signing.
After tearing his Achilles final season, Cousins has thrown a career-high 16 interceptions by 14 video games, together with 3,508 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Cousins is predicted to take a couple of month to weigh his choices after the season is over, the report mentioned.
A commerce is unlikely since Cousins has a no-trade clause and basically no incentive to comply with a deal.
So if Cousins does want to proceed his NFL profession, the Falcons most definitely will simply rip off the Band-Help and lower Cousins earlier than he’s due a $10 million roster bonus in March.
The Falcons introduced Tuesday they have been benching Cousins for Penix Jr. after a tough outing in opposition to the Raiders Monday evening in a 15-9 win, which snapped a four-game skid for Atlanta.
Cousins went 11-for-17 with 112 yards, one landing and one interception.
Penix Jr. is making his first profession begin on Sunday in opposition to the Giants.
He made temporary cameos throughout losses to the Seahawks and Broncos earlier this season.
The Falcons beat the Buccaneers twice this season and thus personal the tiebreaker.
Tampa Bay visits the Cowboys Sunday evening earlier than ending with two house video games in opposition to the Panthers and Saints, whereas Atlanta hits the street to play the Commanders subsequent Sunday evening earlier than ending the season at house in opposition to the Panthers.
