Kirk Cousins' Big Gamble: Why the Falcons Bet on the Veteran QB
The Atlanta Falcons made headlines this past spring with a bold move to secure veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. After missing the playoffs for the sixth consecutive year with a lackluster 7-10 finish, the Falcons were determined to turn their fortunes around. Their strategy included a major overhaul, parting ways with head coach Arthur Smith and trading away quarterback Desmond Ridder. Their primary focus was to bring in a seasoned quarterback who could propel them into a competitive position, and Cousins fit the bill perfectly.
Kirk Cousins, who signed a colossal four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons in March 2024, has become the centerpiece of Atlanta's new vision. The contract is packed with $100 million guaranteed and a hefty $50 million signing bonus. The financial commitment reflects the Falcons' belief in Cousins' ability to deliver results, despite his recent history and age. The contract also features an option for Cousins to exit before the 2026 season, adding some flexibility to the deal.
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Cousins' contract terms are as follows: for the 2024 season, he will earn $12.5 million, which will increase to $27.5 million in 2025, and then to $35 million for both 2026 and 2027. At 36 years old and recovering from an Achilles injury, Cousins’ performance in his debut game with the Falcons was underwhelming. He threw for just 155 yards, with one touchdown and two interceptions in a loss to the Steelers. Nevertheless, his contract places him as the 14th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL, with an average annual salary of $45 million—matching that of Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes.
Critics have scrutinized the hefty investment in Cousins, given his playoff track record. Over 12 seasons, Cousins has only participated in four playoff games, securing a 1-3 record. This raises questions about the wisdom of committing $180 million to a quarterback who hasn’t progressed past the Divisional Round. Despite this, Cousins boasts impressive career statistics. Since becoming a full-time starter in 2015, he has accumulated more passing yards than any other quarterback—36,596 yards—and trails only Russell Wilson in passing touchdowns with 253.
Kirk Cousins’ new contract with the Falcons is a high-stakes gamble, reflecting Atlanta’s ambitious attempt to reshape its future. Whether Cousins will justify the investment and lead the Falcons to success remains to be seen, but the franchise’s decision underscores their urgency to shift their trajectory and make a significant push in the coming seasons.
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