Falcons expected to release Kirk Cousins in March, adding another veteran QB to free-agent market
When the NFL’s free-agent signing interval opens in March, another veteran quarterback shall be added to the record of accessible gamers. Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins shall be launched on the primary day of the 2026 league yr, Falcons common supervisor Ian Cunningham stated Tuesday.
Cunningham made these feedback throughout an area radio interview. He stated he spoke to each Cousins and his agent in regards to the transfer.
Cousins, 37, nonetheless confirmed some capacity with the Falcons down the stretch. Following a season-ending harm to Michael Penix Jr., Cousins began the ultimate seven video games of the common season for Atlanta. He threw for 1,471 yards, 10 touchdowns and 5 interceptions throughout these contests. The Falcons went 5-2 with Cousins below heart down the stretch, however that wasn’t ok to push the workforce into the playoffs.
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While Cousins already is aware of his destiny, the Falcons will wait till March 11 — when the 2026 league yr begins — to make the transfer for wage cap causes.
Once he turns into out there, Cousins will be a part of a free-agent quarterback market plagued by older veterans like Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson and Joe Flacco. All 4 of these gamers may draw curiosity from groups, though none of them, excluding Rodgers, appear possible to be assured a beginning job.
Cousins turned in a superb 12 seasons to begin his NFL profession, however an Achilles harm in his last season with the Minnesota Vikings solid doubt on his future. Cousins returned rapidly from that harm, however struggled in his first yr with the Falcons in 2024, ultimately being benched for Penix.
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While Cousins confirmed indicators of life down the stretch, it is unclear whether or not he’ll lead to a big function in 2026. The veteran may nonetheless have some capacity in his proper arm, and will assist a workforce win some video games subsequent season, however he might have to compete for enjoying time on his new membership.
