NFL insider says keeping Cousins could create potential QB controversy if Penix struggles<\/p>\n
The Atlanta Falcons<\/a> found themselves in a no-win situation after benching veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins<\/a> late in the 2024 season. Releasing Cousins just one year into his four-year, $180 million contract would create a salary cap headache, and the trade market for overpriced quarterbacks has dried up this late in the offseason.<\/p>\n This has left the Falcons<\/a> in the somewhat unusual situation of having to keep Cousins as a high-priced backup to Michael Penix Jr<\/a>. It’s the smart move in terms of cap management, and gives the team insurance at the game’s most important position.<\/p>\n However, Cousins’ mere presence (and contact) could become a potential distraction this season. This issue was raised in a new ESPN<\/a> feature breaking down the 32 NFL quarterback rooms<\/a>.<\/p>\n “The bulk of the offseason has come and gone, and Cousins is still with the Falcons — even though they’ve openly said Penix will be the starter in his second season,” writes ESPN’s Dan Graziano<\/a>. “Cousins is making $27.5 million this season (and has $10 million guaranteed in 2026) to be a backup.”<\/p>\n The piece goes on to highlight Atlanta’s difficult early season schedule as a reason for Penix to potentially struggle, which could create an awkward quarterback controversy if Cousins still on the roster.<\/p>\n “If Penix struggles early — four of Atlanta’s first five games are against 2024 playoff teams and three of the team’s first six are in prime time — it could be tempting to go back to the veteran Cousins even after he disappointed last season,” adds Graziano<\/a>. “It’s the main reason the Falcons should have worked harder to unload Cousins this offseason.”<\/p>\n