The Atlanta Falcons officially declared on Tuesday that they will release quarterback Kirk Cousins on March 11, the first day of the new league year. This decision comes after discussions involving Falcons general manager Ian Cunningham, Cousins, and his agent, aligning with prior reports that anticipated this move before the league year begins.
Strategic Timing and Financial Considerations Behind the Release
The Falcons plan to execute the release after the league year starts to potentially categorize Cousins’ departure as a post-June 1 release. Ian Cunningham explained that this designation enables the Falcons to distribute Cousins’ $35 million dead cap charge over two seasons, with $22.5 million counting against the cap in 2026. If released before June 1, the team would face an immediate $10.4 million cap hit, compared to saving only $2.1 million this year under the post-June 1 option.
Contract Restructuring and Guaranteed Money Details
In January, Cousins and the Falcons adjusted his contract to guarantee $67.9 million in 2027 if he remained on the roster past March 13. This restructuring preserved all previously guaranteed amounts without altering the existing financial commitments owed to the quarterback.
Cousins Joins a Year’s Notable Free-Agent Quarterback Group
Upon release, Kirk Cousins will enter free agency among a significant group of available quarterbacks this offseason, which includes high-profile names such as Aaron Rodgers, Malik Willis, Daniel Jones, and Russell Wilson. The pool might also grow if Kyler Murray or Tua Tagovailoa become available depending on their teams’ decisions and trade negotiations.
Kirk Cousins’ Recent Performance and Contract History with Falcons
Turning 38 this August, Cousins appeared in 10 games during the 2025 season, starting eight, and accumulated 1,721 passing yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions. Over the past two seasons, the Falcons achieved a 12-10 record in his 22 starts. Cousins originally signed with Atlanta as a free agent in March 2024 on a four-year deal valued at $180 million.
Implications for the Falcons and the Upcoming Season
The release of Kirk Cousins marks a pivotal shift for the Falcons as they navigate roster decisions ahead of the new season. By managing salary cap impacts through strategic timing, the team aims to maintain flexibility while exploring quarterback options in a competitive free-agent market. Cousins’ availability alongside other notable quarterbacks significantly impacts league dynamics and potential team strategies moving forward.
Cunningham says he spoke with Kirk Cousins and his agent recently and told them the plan was to release Cousins the first day of the league year. #Falcons
— Marc Raimondi (@marcraimondi) February 24, 2026
