On Tuesday in Indianapolis, Atlanta Falcons‘ new general manager Ian Cunningham announced the team’s intention to release quarterback Kirk Cousins once the NFL free agency period begins next month. This decision comes after Cousins, a 14-year NFL veteran, has delivered mixed performances over two seasons with the Falcons.
Cunningham explained the reasoning behind the early notice:
“What he’s done in his career, we owe that to him just to allow him some clarity going into free agency,”
providing Cousins with transparency ahead of the upcoming free agent market.
Performance and Contract Details of Cousins’ Tenure with Falcons
Cousins signed a $180 million contract with Atlanta roughly six weeks before the team selected Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Penix secured the starting quarterback position in 2025, but after a season-ending knee injury, Cousins resumed the starting role late that season.
Over the last two years, Cousins started 22 out of 34 games, compiling a 12-10 record. However, his 2024 performance was marred by 16 interceptions—the highest in the league during 14 games. Across his career with Washington, Minnesota, and Atlanta, Cousins holds an 88-77-2 record as a starting quarterback. His 2027 salary of $67.9 million is guaranteed if he remains on the Falcons’ roster by the third day of the league year under his revised contract.
Falcons’ Move to Retain Tight End Kyle Pitts with Franchise Tag
Alongside the decision to release Cousins, the Falcons plan to place their franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts, thereby preventing him from entering free agency. Pitts, selected fourth overall in the 2021 draft, achieved a career-best 88 receptions and five touchdowns in the previous season. His 928 receiving yards ranked second among NFL tight ends last year. The franchise tag for tight ends this season is projected to be approximately $16 million.
Implications and Next Steps for the Falcons and Kirk Cousins
The release of Cousins signals a shift in the Falcons’ quarterback strategy, potentially opening opportunities for other players like Michael Penix Jr. at the position. For Cousins, the move initiates a new chapter in his career as he enters free agency seeking a role with another team. Meanwhile, retaining Pitts underscores Atlanta’s commitment to maintaining key offensive playmakers as they prepare for the upcoming season.
