As the 2025 NFL seasonapproaches, the Atlanta Falcons have officially named Michael Penix Jr. as their starting quarterback. Following the announcement, Kirk Cousins has revealed what his next step will be.
The past few years have been somewhat confusing for the Falcons. In the 2024 offseason, the team signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to lead the offense with a four-year deal—signaling their commitment to experience and stability.
Surprisingly, just weeks later, the front office used its first-round pick to select a quarterback—Michael Penix Jr. This unexpected move raised questions about the team’s long-term strategy and the logic behind signing Cousins in the first place.
Kirk Cousins makes final decision after Falcons name Penix Jr. starting QB
The Falcons have made several controversial decisions in recent seasons. Seeking a veteran presence under center, they signed Cousins to a 4-year, $180 million contract in 2024, making him the presumed long-term starter.
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However, that plan quickly shifted when the Falcons selected Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Although Cousins began the season as the starter, Penix eventually took over—and now enters the 2025 season as QB1.
Given this shift, rumors swirled about a potential split between Cousins and the Falcons. Yet the veteran quarterback refused to waive his no-trade clause, and the front office was unwilling to release him outright.
As a result, Cousins has now accepted his role as backup to Penix Jr. While he reportedly isn’t thrilled with the demotion, he understands the team’s direction and has committed to supporting the young quarterback.
Michael Penix Jr. #9 of the Atlanta Falcons looks to pass the ball against the New York Giants during the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 22, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.
“Obviously you would love to play, but I’m not going to dwell on things that aren’t reality,” Cousins said on press conference on Tuesday. “That’s not the situation I am in, so it’s better to be focused on the situation I’m in and control what you can control. I think that’s the right mindset to have.”
“We’re moving forward and it’s about how we as a team and as a quarterback room can be the best we can be in 2025.”
Why didn’t Kirk Cousins waive his no-trade clause?
When Cousins signed with Atlanta, he negotiated a no-trade clause into his contract—a move designed to give him long-term security. However, this clause ultimately limited the team’s options once Penix was named the starter.
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Reports suggest that no appealing trade offers were available for Cousins. Rather than risk lowering his market value or joining a team with no real shot at contention, he chose to stay in Atlanta and honor his contract.
Although the situation is far from ideal, Cousins remains with the Falcons—for now—as they transition into the Michael Penix Jr. era.
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