Official announcement from the Atlanta Falcons or verified sports news outlets like ESPN or NFL.com

Atlanta Falcons Expected to Release Kirk Cousins Before $10 Million Bonus Due March 17 After $180 Million Contract

Dec 21, 2024, 02:03 PM

The Atlanta Falcons are expected to release quarterback Kirk Cousins before a $10 million roster bonus is due on March 17, 2025. This decision follows a disappointing season for Cousins, who signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons that included $100 million guaranteed earlier this year. Reports indicate that the Falcons' management views the acquisition of Cousins as a significant misstep, as he has only started 14 games and thrown 18 touchdowns since joining the team. Following his release, Cousins is anticipated to enter free agency, potentially signing with a new team at a reduced salary, given that he is owed a fully guaranteed $27.5 million for 2025, which could be offset by any new contract. The Falcons' move to cut Cousins aims to avoid the financial burden of the upcoming bonus while allowing the team to explore other quarterback options.