The Atlanta Falcons plan to release quarterback Kirk Cousins by March 17, when his $10 million roster bonus for the 2026 season expires, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. It is said that
The veteran signal-caller signed a four-year, $180 million contract with a no-trade clause in March. Schefter reported that it is widely expected around the league that the Falcons will not be able to trade Cousins and will have to waive him.
Atlanta benched the 36-year-old earlier this week after Cousins went 1-4 with one touchdown and nine interceptions in his past five games. Cousins’ 88.6 passer rating in 14 games was his worst since becoming a full-time starter in 2015.
According to Over The Cap, Cousins is scheduled to have a $40 million cap hit in 2025. He spent six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings before landing in Atlanta last offseason.
Michael Penix, who was drafted eighth overall by the Falcons this year, will make his first career start against the New York Giants on Sunday. Penix finished second in 2023 Heisman voting behind Jaden Daniels, throwing for 4,903 yards, 36 touchdowns and 11 interceptions while leading Washington to the national championship.
Atlanta’s passing offense ranks 29th in EPA/dropbacks over the past five weeks. The Falcons will face a Giants pass defense that ranks 26th in dropback percentage through 14 games, according to Ben Baldwin’s database.
The Falcons are 7-7, just one game behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for first place in the NFC South.
