Kirk Cousins’ arrival in Atlanta was marked by excitement and optimism. The Falcons made a significant investment in the seasoned quarterback, offering him a massive four-year, $180 million deal, including $100 million guaranteed. The move seemed to signal the Falcons’ intent to contend for a deep playoff run with Cousins at the helm.
However, that vision appeared to blur when the Falcons drafted 24-year-old quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick. Cousins was reportedly “stunned” by the decision, according to his agent, as he had expected the team to bolster its defense or secure an offensive weapon like Rome Odunze.
Instead, Atlanta selected a young quarterback, potentially sowing uncertainty in the relationship between Cousins and the organization.
A Sticking Point for Kirk Cousins
Kirk Cousins’ shock at the Falcons’ draft strategy is understandable. After all, one of the primary reasons he left the Minnesota Vikings was because of their transparent intention to draft his successor. The Vikings followed through on that plan by selecting J.J. McCarthy with the 10th overall pick.
Kirk Cousins Reportedly Didn't Return to Minnesota Partly Because the Vikings Told Him They Were Drafting a Quarterback and Then the Falcons Did the Same Thing Without Telling Him https://t.co/IfXkPJjfTt pic.twitter.com/kSk2t0GnhT
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) May 7, 2024
In contrast, Atlanta’s decision blindsided Cousins. The lack of prior communication added tension, potentially damaging trust between Cousins and the Falcons.
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer points out that Cousins is mature and classy enough to work through this challenge. Raheem Morris, Atlanta’s head coach, is also known for building strong relationships. But Breer warns that this situation could become precarious if the Falcons struggle early in the season.
Banking on Kirk Cousins or Turning to Michael Penix Jr.?
The looming question is how much faith the Falcons will place in Kirk Cousins, especially with his age and recent Achilles injury factored in. Cousins will be 36 when the 2024 season starts, and there’s a universe where he may not be fully recovered or perform at peak efficiency right away. In that case, will the Falcons turn to Penix early if Cousins falters in the first half of the season? Or will they let the veteran shake off the rust and regain his rhythm?
The Atlanta Falcons front office, particularly GM Terry Fontenot, maintains that drafting Penix was a strategic move for the long term. They aim to avoid another post-Matt Ryan void at quarterback. Nevertheless, this decision might have inadvertently created friction with Cousins.
Navigating a Rocky Road Ahead
While the Falcons claim they’re playing the long game, their immediate challenge is to ensure a smooth working relationship with Kirk Cousins.
Keeping their starting quarterback confident and support will be crucial if they hope to make the most of their investment and reach their playoff aspirations.
Ultimately, how the Atlanta Falcons navigate this sensitive quarterback situation will be critical. Kirk Cousins and Penix must coexist, but managing the transition from veteran to rookie, if and when it happens, will require careful planning and communication.
The 2024 season is shaping up to be an intriguing one for Atlanta, and how they handle this delicate quarterback dynamic could significantly impact their trajectory.
