Arthur Blank will keep his promise. The Atlanta Falcons have decided not to cut Kirk Cousins, according to a report by Adam Schefter. The move is key amid a quarterback carousel in free agency led by Aaron Rodgers.
“Sources: The Falcons officially will be keeping QB Kirk Cousins on their roster past 4 PM eastern today, triggering a guarantee on a $10M roster bonus that is due in 2026, sources told ESPN’s Field Yates and me.”
If Cousins had been released by the Falcons, several teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, the New York Giants, or the Cleveland Browns could have considered him as an option. However, the former quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings is not available.
Will Falcons trade Kirk Cousins?
The Falcons trading Kirk Cousins could be the most viable option at this point. Although it will cost them $10 million with the bonus, Arthur Smith now controls the narrative. If any team wants him as time runs out, they’ll only have a trade left, with all the compensation that comes with it.
“Kirk Cousins, who was benched with just three games left last season in favor of Michael Penix, Jr., has been the topic of trade speculation. With Atlanta’s decision official, it removes any need for the Falcons to rush any decision on Cousins’ future, be it staying on the team, being traded or an eventual release.”