ATL Standard

With the NFL Combine set to begin in Indianapolis, attention is focused on the Atlanta Falcons and their quarterback situation. The spotlight is on Kirk Cousins, whose future with the team remains a topic of discussion.

Falcons' head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot have addressed Cousins' role following his replacement by Michael Penix Jr. towards the end of last season. Morris clarified that replacing Cousins was a "football decision," while Fontenot expressed confidence in keeping Cousins as Penix's backup. Despite these statements, questions about Cousins' future persist, especially after he revealed on Good Morning Football that he had been dealing with a shoulder injury not disclosed during the season.

Fontenot and Morris are expected to face inquiries regarding Cousins when they speak at media events in Indianapolis. Details of Cousins' contract reveal complexities that could impact his tenure with the Falcons.

Cousins is entering the second year of a four-year contract structured essentially as a two-year guaranteed deal. His base salary for 2025 stands at $27.5 million, up from $12.5 million in 2024. The cap hit for 2025 amounts to $40 million, representing 14% of the team's cap space, although this percentage may change based on final league cap figures.

The contract includes a no-trade clause requiring waiver for any potential trade, which would also need mutual agreement between both parties involved. If traded before June 1, the Falcons would incur $37.5 million in dead money but save $2.5 million against the cap; post-June 1 trades would result in $12.5 million dead money and $27.5 million savings.

Cousins is also due a $10 million roster bonus on March 17. Reports suggested an impending release prior to this date; however, Fontenot refuted these claims, stating plans to retain Cousins while acknowledging the possibility of release if deemed necessary.

If released before June 1, it would lead to a significant financial impact with a $65 million dead money charge; post-June 1 release results in $40 million dead money without any cap savings.

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