The Atlanta Falcons have officially released Kirk Cousins, ending their commitment to the remaining $70 million on his contract. Although Cousins will now earn a reduced salary of $2.1 million with a cap hit near $25 million, his contract still carries a massive financial impact, with $67.9 million due next March and a cap hit of $90.4 million, completing the $100 million guaranteed at signing.
Cousins Aims to Continue Playing Despite Open Market Status
Now a free agent, Cousins plans to continue his NFL career into 2026, despite being 37 years old and entering his 15th season. With many teams searching for quarterback solutions, his experience remains valuable. Curiously, the Falcons—the team that just released him—are among those in need of a viable quarterback option for the upcoming season.
Falcons Face Quarterback Uncertainty with Penix’s Injury Recovery
Atlanta’s second-year quarterback, Michael Penix Jr., suffered an ACL tear last season and may not be fully recovered by the start of 2026. This situation leaves the Falcons potentially lacking a dependable starting quarterback, which has sparked speculation about Cousins’ possible return to the team despite his release.
Jason McCourty Discusses the Likelihood of Cousins Returning to Atlanta
Former NFL cornerback and Super Bowl champion Jason McCourty suggested during a segment on Get Up that Cousins’ return to Atlanta remains a distinct possibility. He highlighted Cousins’ familiarity with the team’s new head coach and offensive system as a major factor.
“I think there’s a chance that they sign Kirk Cousins once they release him,”
McCourty said.
“Because if you’re Cousins, there’s familiarity with Stefanski coming over.”
“And you’ve just been in Atlanta for the last two years, you know the players in that locker room. So, I think the best fit for Kirk Cousins may just be to return to Atlanta while Penix is recovering from his knee surgery,”
added McCourty.
Strong Connections Between Cousins and Falcons’ Coaching Staff Favor a Return
Cousins has a well-established relationship with Atlanta’s new head coach, Kevin Stefanski, who previously served as his quarterback coach and offensive coordinator with the Minnesota Vikings in 2018 and 2019. This coaching connection could be a key factor influencing Cousins’ next move.
Cousins’ Role and Value Within the Falcons Organization
In recent years, Cousins has earned respect as a capable backup, bringing experience and leadership to the Falcons locker room. Although no longer a dominant starter, his ability to contribute when called upon is well recognized. With Penix potentially sidelined, Cousins could offer a reliable option at a reduced salary, making his return appealing from both a football and financial standpoint.
Falcons’ Dilemma: Rebuilding or Retaining Veteran Experience
Despite these factors, the Falcons may be ready to part ways with Cousins entirely. Their initial signing aimed to usher in a new chapter anchored by youthful talent, but Cousins was unable to replicate the success he achieved with Minnesota before suffering a significant Achilles injury. Ultimately, the high-risk signing did not meet expectations and continues to strain Atlanta’s finances for upcoming seasons.
Future Outlook: Falcons’ Strategy in the 2026 Season
The Falcons face a critical decision as they approach the 2026 season. If they cannot secure a suitable quarterback to fill the gap during Penix’s rehabilitation, re-signing Cousins on a more affordable contract could be a pragmatic choice. His familiarity with the team and coaching staff, combined with his veteran savvy, might provide the stability the Falcons need while navigating their roster challenges.
.@JasonMcCourty believes there's a chance Kirk Cousins returns to Atlanta after they release him.
What team is the best fit for Kirk Cousins? 👀 pic.twitter.com/gvxdmd9OTx
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) February 24, 2026
