The Atlanta Falcons are officially moving on from veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, signalling a full commitment to their young talent as the team enters a new era. General manager Ian Cunningham made the announcement clear during his Tuesday news conference at the NFL Scouting Combine. He confirmed that the team has planned to release Cousins on March 11, the first day of the 2026 NFL league year.
Ian Cunningham’s confirms Kirk Cousins’ release
“Had a good conversation with Kirk the other day and then Mike, his representation, as well. I let them know that our plan will be to release him the first day of the league year,” Cunningham said.
“Obviously, the contract structure allows for that to occur. Again, out of respect for Kirk and for Michael, I felt like that was the best decision, and the timing was right to let them know our intentions and our plan, so that they can put a Plan together for themselves. I feel like we owe that to him. I owe that to Kirk and his rep to be able to have that clarity moving forward.”
This move comes after recent contract adjustments and follows two up-and-down seasons for Cousins in Atlanta.
Contract details and Atlanta Falcons’ strategy
The Atlanta Falcons signed Kirk Cousins to a four-year deal worth up to $180 million in 2024 to provide stability at quarterback. However, the team drafted Michael Penix Jr in the first round that same year, hinting at a future transition.
In early 2026, the Falcons restructured Cousins’ contract. His 2026 base salary dropped from $35 million to $2.1 million, shifting $32.9 million to 2027. This created a $67.9 million vesting guarantee for 2027 that would activate on March 13. By releasing him on March 11, the Falcons will avoid that massive financial hit, gaining crucial salary cap relief.
Kirk Cousins’ performance in Atlanta Falcons
Kirk Cousins started 14 games in 2024, posting a 66.9% completion rate, averaging 250.6 yards per game, with 18 touchdowns and a league-high 16 interceptions. He went 7-7 as a starter in an 8-9 season, getting benched late for Penix due to struggles.
In 2025, Penix began as the starter but suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 11. Cousins stepped back in, starting seven of the final games and appearing in 10 total. He completed 61.7% of passes for 172.1 yards per game, throwing 10 touchdowns and five interceptions. The Falcons finished 8-9 again.
After a late-season win streak, Cousins expressed hope to stay. “I would love to be back here,” he said. “We’ll see how things play out.”
