Quarterback Kirk Cousins faces growing uncertainty about his future following the Atlanta Falcons’ decision to bench him during the 2025 NFL season. Having signed a lucrative contract in 2024, Cousins became the league’s highest-paid backup, but with Michael Penix Jr. taking over as the Falcons’ starter, widespread rumors suggest Cousins could either explore opportunities with another team or consider retirement.
Cousins, a four-time Pro Bowler, has openly expressed his desire to continue playing, yet his prospects remain unclear as the Falcons prepare to release him before the new league year begins. These developments have sparked questions about where his career might head next amid speculation fueled by insiders and analysts.
Kirk Cousins’ Path from Washington to Atlanta and the Rise of Penix
Drafted in 2012’s fourth round by the Washington Commanders, then known as the Redskins, Kirk Cousins’ entry into the NFL was unexpected due to the team already securing Robert Griffin III with a top pick. Cousins capitalized on Griffin’s injury troubles to gain playing time, building experience that led to a move to the Minnesota Vikings in 2018. He remained with the Vikings until signing a significant contract with Atlanta in 2024.
That same year, the Falcons surprised Cousins by drafting Michael Penix Jr., ultimately naming Penix the starting quarterback. Cousins was not informed of this plan and soon found himself sidelined. Despite this, he maintained professionalism but remains candid about wanting to play, raising questions about whether any teams will pursue him after his release.
Insider Perspectives on Cousins’ Release and Future Options
NFL insider Adam Schefter discussed Cousins’ situation on The Pat McAfee Show, confirming that the Falcons intend to release the veteran quarterback before the new league year starts. Schefter noted,
“Kirk Cousins, he’s expected to be released,”
adding,
“They restructured his contract with the idea that he would be released. He will be released before the new league year begins. I think he’d like to play, but he’s going to consider all his options that could include TV, that could include retirement, whatever it is he wants to do, he’ll have the option of doing it, but the Falcons will release him before the start of the new league year, so that will be an option for him.”
When asked if a return to the Vikings was possible, Schefter acknowledged that while Minnesota plans to acquire a quarterback, it remains uncertain if Cousins or the team desire a reunion. He stated,
“I asked Kirk about Minnesota last week, and I didn’t get a no, but I didn’t get a yes. It’s possible, but there are a lot of things out there that are possible with him,”
highlighting the open-ended nature of Cousins’ options.
Assessment of Cousins’ Recent Performance and Market Prospects
At 37 years old, Cousins participated in 10 games during the 2025 season, starting eight after Penix was sidelined due to injury. His performance, measured using PFSN’s QB Impact metric, earned a C- grade with a 71.1 rating, placing him 30th among NFL quarterbacks—just ahead of Penix at 31st with a 70.1 score.
This standing reflects both his experience and the challenges he faced on the field during a transitionary period for the Falcons. The modest rating could affect the level of interest from other NFL teams, complicating Cousins’ attempt to continue his professional career or prompting serious consideration of retirement.
What Lies Ahead for Kirk Cousins in the NFL Landscape
Kirk Cousins’ impending release signifies a pivotal moment in the veteran’s career filled with uncertainty. While he clearly wishes to keep playing, the circumstances with the Falcons and his recent performance raise doubts about immediate opportunities in the league. If no team commits to signing him, Cousins might explore alternatives such as broadcasting or retiring.
The next few weeks will be critical for determining his path forward as the NFL roster moves unfold. Teams in need of experienced quarterbacks will weigh Cousins’ potential contributions against younger options. Meanwhile, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see whether this four-time Pro Bowler can extend his career or decides to step away from the game.
"Kirk Cousins is expected to be released..
I think he would like to play but he's gonna consider his options" ~ @AdamSchefter #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/8uCpWoWV7g
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) February 9, 2026
