Kirk Cousins may serve as Michael Penix Jr.’s backup for the Atlanta Falcons until the end of the 2025 NFL season. Despite an upcoming $10 million 2026 roster bonus that would become fully guaranteed if he is not released or traded by Monday, the Falcons are proceeding with Cousins on their team. Following a meeting between Cousins and team owner Arthur Blank, it was agreed that Cousins would stay with the Falcons beyond the roster bonus deadline. The plan is for Cousins to back up Penix Jr. for the 2025 season, earning $27.5 million in guaranteed salary. However, a trade option is still possible if another team shows interest and Cousins agrees to waive his no-trade clause. After the 2025 season, the Falcons could release Cousins and potentially offset the $10 million in guaranteed money for 2026 if another team pays him more than that amount. This decision has implications for the quarterback market, as teams like the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Giants are all seeking solutions at the quarterback position. With Cousins expected to stay with the Falcons, these teams would need to navigate potential trade negotiations and salary considerations if they wish to pursue him as an option.
