Atlanta Falcons are probably planning to release Cousins

Kirk Cousins ​​and the Atlanta Falcons will probably go their separate ways by March at the latest.

According to an “ESPN” report, executives in the NFL assume this. The reason is a bonus of ten million dollars, which is due on March 17, 2025. It is said that the separation is inevitable at this point.

Because the Falcons would hardly throw another ten million dollars at Cousins ​​after the disastrous 2024 season. The Falcons will pay Cousins ​​a total of $62.5 million for 2024. He has a fully guaranteed salary of $27.5 million for 2025.

The result of the dismissal would be a hefty dead cap hit of $65 million.

Further background: The most recently fired quarterback has a no-trade clause in his contract, and the general assumption is that the 36-year-old will be with the Falcons after the history surrounding his signing in the offseason and the subsequent selection of Michael Penix in the draft as well the recent disembarkation will do no favors.

Cousins ​​was given up after five miserable performances with four defeats, and rookie Penix is ​​supposed to take over. The Falcons have a 7-7 record heading into Week 16.

Since the Falcons probably won’t be able to trade the playmaker due to the clause, many in the league are expecting him to be released before the bonus is due. This would make Cousins ​​a free agent again.

A Falcons official told ESPN that it was still too early to make a decision. With Penix only getting $5.2 million in 2025, the Falcons would have the financial flexibility to potentially keep Cousins, they said.