Atlanta, United States
News Desk | Sports
The Atlanta Falcons have confirmed that veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins will remain the team’s starting quarterback entering the 2025 NFL season, team officials said Tuesday. The announcement follows weeks of internal evaluations after the franchise selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Kirk Cousins, 36, signed a four-year, $180 million contract with Atlanta in March 2024 after six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. The deal included $100 million guaranteed, signaling the organization’s commitment to stabilizing the position following inconsistent quarterback play in recent seasons.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris said the decision was based on performance, leadership, and experience. Kirk has demonstrated command of the offense and continues to set the standard in preparation and professionalism, Morris told reporters during a team availability session.
Kirk Cousins 2024 campaign marked his return from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in October 2023 while playing for Minnesota. Medical staff cleared him for full participation ahead of training camp last year, and team officials have stated there have been no setbacks related to the injury.
During the 2024 season, Cousins provided veteran stability as the Falcons competed in the NFC South. According to league statistics, he finished the year with more than 4,000 passing yards and over 25 touchdown passes, ranking among the top quarterbacks in several offensive categories.
The Falcons’ selection of Penix at No. 8 overall in the 2024 draft drew national attention, particularly given Cousins’ contract and expected role. General Manager Terry Fontenot said at the time that the move was about “long-term roster building” and not an immediate change at quarterback.
NFL analysts noted that Atlanta’s approach mirrors a growing trend among franchises investing in both veteran starters and developmental prospects at quarterback. The strategy allows teams to remain competitive while preparing for future transitions.
Kirk Cousins, a former fourth-round pick out of Michigan State, has thrown for more than 39,000 career yards and over 270 touchdowns across stints with Washington, Minnesota, and Atlanta. He has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and is widely regarded as one of the league’s most durable quarterbacks prior to his Achilles injury.
Team officials said Kirk Cousins will take the majority of first-team reps during offseason workouts, while Penix is expected to continue developing under the coaching staff. No timeline has been provided regarding any potential shift in the depth chart.
The Falcons are scheduled to begin organized team activities later this spring, with training camp set for July.
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