FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) — Atlanta Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot stated on Thursday that the team is content with retaining Kirk Cousins as the backup quarterback for the upcoming season, supporting Michael Penix Jr. in the starting role.
Cousins, who signed a significant four-year, $180 million contract last year with $100 million guaranteed, was sidelined as Penix took over for the final three games of the season, which culminated in an 8-9 record — marking the Falcons’ seventh straight losing season. A significant portion of the guaranteed money, $10 million, remains to be paid if Cousins remains on the roster past March 17. Fontenot dismissed speculations of Cousins being released, emphasizing, “He’s not the starter anymore, but we’re very comfortable moving forward with him as a backup.”
Acknowledging Cousins’ professionalism and character, Fontenot praised him as a “great man” and a supportive teammate, noting his positive demeanor throughout the transition. Despite Penix’s limited tenure as the starter, showing promise as a passer and demonstrating improved mobility compared to Cousins, the Falcons stand behind their decision to retain Cousins in a secondary role.
Penix, the eighth overall pick in the previous NFL draft, displayed potential during his limited time as the starter, amassing 312 passing yards and contributing to three touchdowns in a recent game against Carolina. The Falcons, however, fell short of making the playoffs for yet another season.
Cousins initially led the team to a strong start with a 6-3 record and the NFC South lead before struggling in subsequent games. Notably, his performance declined, marked by a disproportionate number of interceptions, ultimately leading to his replacement by Penix. Fontenot expressed disappointment with the team’s overall season results, emphasizing the need to translate words into tangible outcomes.
Fontenot’s confirmation of retaining Cousins as a backup potentially serves as a strategic message to any interested parties in the NFL awaiting his release. When questioned about the possibility of a trade involving Cousins, Fontenot remained open to such discussions, emphasizing the importance of mutual agreement among all parties involved, including Cousins, who possesses a no-trade clause.
As the Falcons navigate the offseason following a challenging season marred by inconsistencies, Fontenot remains focused on achieving better results in the future. The team’s decision to maintain Cousins as a backup reflects a strategic approach to bolstering their quarterback depth and stability for the upcoming season.
