When quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was chosen by the Atlanta Falcons with the eighth overall choice in the 2024 draft, the NFL community was taken aback. The surprising nature of this decision begs serious concerns about Kirk Cousins’ long-term viability as the starting quarterback for the Falcons. Let’s take a closer look at What the Falcons Bold Draft Pick Means for Cousins – Is He Out?
Cousins Signed Lucrative Deal in March
Just last month, the Falcons signed Cousins to a lucrative 4-year, $180 million contract with $90 million guaranteed. This deal seemed to solidify Cousins as the Falcons’ franchise quarterback for the next few seasons. However, using such a high draft pick on Penix now casts doubt on that.
The Falcons made this bold move without giving Cousins or his agent any warning. They were completely blindsided when Atlanta was on the clock. Understandably, Cousins felt “shocked” and “disappointed” by the Penix pick.
Falcons Have Clear Out After Two Seasons
Structuring Cousins’ contract with only $90 million guaranteed gives the Falcons an out after two seasons if they want to transition to Penix. As a talented, dual-threat quarterback, Penix has the potential to be a long-term answer for Atlanta. The Falcons likely see him as the heir apparent if Cousins struggles or declines.
Does Pick Mean Cousins Only Has Two Years Left?
By making this move, the Falcons seem to be giving themselves the option to bench Cousins in favor of Penix as soon as 2025. The fact that they guarantee Cousins money for just two seasons can’t be seen as a good sign for his long-term job security.
It’s highly possible that the Falcons draft strategy means Cousins only has two years left to prove himself in Atlanta before being replaced by Penix. This short leash has to be uncomfortable for the veteran QB.
Insurance Policy for Cousins’ Injury History
There’s also an insurance policy element to drafting Penix. Cousins missed most of last season with a torn Achilles, the second major injury of his career. If he goes down again, Penix gives Atlanta a talented backup plan.
Rookie Unlikely to Start Right Away
Even though this pick casts doubt on Cousins’ standing, it’s unlikely that Penix starts right away as a rookie. The Falcons probably want to give Cousins at least one season to show he’s healthy and can lead the team to wins.
But if Atlanta struggles and Cousins falters in 2024, Penix will clearly take over in 2025. This quarterback controversy will dominate headlines all season long.
Cousins Has to Perform to Keep Job
Ultimately, Kirk Cousins needs to play well the next two years if he wants to see out his contract in Atlanta. If the Falcons don’t start winning or Cousins gets injured again, Penix will replace him. This dynamic will raise the pressure and stakes for Cousins in every start he makes going forward. I sincerely hope you find this “What the Falcons Bold Draft Pick Means for Cousins – Is He Out?” article helpful.
