Kirk Cousins is transitioning from the football field to the media landscape. The former Atlanta Falcons quarterback has joined CBS’s pregame show, “The NFL Today,” for key postseason events, including the Divisional Round and AFC Championship game.
Kirk Cousins’ Tenure with the Falcons
This career move comes on the heels of Matt Ryan’s departure from CBS to take on the role of Atlanta’s president of football operations. Cousins ended an eventful, yet turbulent, era with the Falcons and is now seeking new opportunities.
Contract and Performance Overview
Cousins signed a staggering four-year contract with the Falcons in 2024 worth $180 million, out of which $100 million was guaranteed. However, the contract has since been labeled a disaster. The Falcons perplexed many by drafting quarterback Michael Penix with the eighth overall pick the same year Cousins joined the team.
- 2024 Season Highlights:
- Cousins was benched after 14 games despite the Falcons being in playoff contention.
- He returned as a starter due to Penix’s season-ending ACL injury.
- In Cousins’ eight starts, the team recorded a 5-3 record.
Throughout the 2024 season, Cousins posted unimpressive stats, accumulating 1,721 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions, alongside a 61.7 completion percentage. His performance continued to falter, as he tied for the most interceptions in the NFL, totaling 16, while managing 3,508 passing yards and 18 touchdowns.
Career Overview
Cousins was drafted in the fourth round by the Washington Football Team in 2012. He became their full-time starter in 2015. After a successful spell with the Washington franchise, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2018, where he remained a starter for six seasons. Over his career, he has earned a remarkable $321.7 million, according to Spotrac.
Challenges Ahead for the Falcons
Following Cousins’ departure, the Falcons face significant uncertainty at the quarterback position. Penix has struggled in his brief career, amassing only 12 starts and is currently recovering from ACL surgery. Additionally, the team recently fired head coach Raheem Morris after a two-season stint, despite closing the 2024 season on a high note with four consecutive victories to finish with an 8-9 record.
As Cousins embarks on his new media journey, the future of the Falcons remains unclear as they navigate these challenges.
