Falcons’ Gamble: Sticking with Kirk Cousins Despite Promising Rookie penix Jr.
The Atlanta Falcons have triggered a $10 million guaranteed bonus for veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, opting to keep him on the roster despite the emergence of rookie Michael Penix Jr. This decision raises questions about the Falcons’ long-term strategy, given Penix Jr.’s potential as the team’s future signal-caller.
Why Keep Cousins? Mentorship and Experience
The Falcons’ decision hinges on penix Jr.’s limited NFL experience. After playing in just five games during his rookie 2024 season, the team believes he could benefit significantly from having a seasoned veteran like Cousins to guide him and accelerate his development.
Cousins’ Massive contract and Mixed Results
Kirk Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million contract in March 2024, including $100 million in guaranteed money. During the 2024 season, he recorded the following statistics:
- 3,508 passing yards
- 18 touchdowns
- 16 interceptions
- 66.9% completion rate
Although Cousins’ numbers weren’t catastrophic, the Falcons posted a 7-7 record with him as the starter, leading to his benching mid-season and giving Penix jr. an chance to lead the offense.
Cousins’ Uncertain Future
Despite signing him to a lucrative contract just a year prior,the Falcons initially considered parting ways with Cousins during free agency. With 13 seasons in the NFL, including stints with the Commanders and Vikings, Cousins remains a capable quarterback with the ability to win games. However, his lack of playoff success has prevented him from being considered among the league’s elite.
Cousins’ Earnings Rival Tom brady’s Despite Lack of Super Bowl Wins
While he has never won a Super bowl, Kirk Cousins has amassed significant career earnings. Over 13 seasons,he has accumulated $331.6 million in career earnings, a figure comparable to Tom Brady, who earned $332.9 million over 23 seasons.
Kirk Cousins has now guaranteed himself $331.6M earned on the field across 14 NFL seasons.
Tom Brady earned $332M in 23 seasons.
— Spotrac (@spotrac) March 15, 2025
Brady often prioritized winning, accepting lower salaries to provide his team with greater financial versatility. Today’s players earn higher salaries due to increased NFL revenues from TV rights, advertising deals, and other factors.As the league continues to grow internationally, these figures are expected to rise in the coming years.
**Considering Kirk Cousins’ contract and performance history, is keeping him as a mentor for michael Penix Jr. a wise financial decision for the Atlanta falcons?**
Falcons’ Gamble: Sticking with Kirk Cousins Despite Promising Rookie Penix Jr. – Q&A
The Atlanta Falcons’ decision to keep Kirk Cousins has sparked debate. Here’s a breakdown of the key questions and considerations.
Q&A
Q: Why did the Falcons trigger Cousins’ $10 million bonus?
A: They believe his experiance can mentor Michael penix Jr., the rookie quarterback. Penix Jr. only played five games in 2024.
Q: What were Cousins’ stats in 2024?
A: 3,508 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, 16 interceptions, and a 66.9% completion rate. The team went 7-7 with him as the starter before benching him mid-season.
Q: how much did Cousins’ contract cost the Falcons?
A: He signed a four-year, $180 million contract in March 2024, with $100 million guaranteed.
Q: How do Cousins’ career earnings compare to tom Brady’s?
A: after 14 seasons, Cousins has earned $331.6 million, nearly matching Tom Brady’s $332 million over 23 seasons. [[1](https://twitter.com/spotrac/status/1900970795683217717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)](Note: This information is current as of March 15, 2025).
Q: What’s the main difference in their approaches to contract negotiations?
A: Brady often took less money to allow his team more financial adaptability, prioritizing winning. Cousins’ salary reflects the NFL’s increased revenues.
Q: What are some of Kirk cousins’ career highlights?
A: While he hasn’t achieved major playoff success, Cousins has consistently put up solid numbers, including seasons with over 4,000 passing yards. He has played for Washington Commanders and the minnesota Vikings before joining the Atlanta falcons [[1](https://www.atlantafalcons.com/team/players-roster/kirk-cousins/)]
Q: What is the Falcons’ long-term strategy?
A: The Falcons are likely betting on the ability of Cousins to mentor Penix Jr. while he develops. This bet depends on Penix Jr.’s performance and how quickly he adapts to the NFL.
The Falcons’ decision is a high-stakes gamble. Only time will tell if Cousins can deliver, or if Penix Jr. can become the team’s future. Keep an eye on this developing quarterback situation.
