Falcons’ Quarterback strategy: Are They Planning to Trade Kirk Cousins?
The Atlanta Falcons’ commitment to quarterback Kirk Cousins beyond the 2024 season is under scrutiny, with a key contractual detail suggesting a potential trade in 2025. Despite indications that Cousins would mentor Michael Penix Jr., their actions hint at a diffrent strategy.
Falcons’ Inaction Speaks Volumes
The Falcons possess a unique provision within Cousins’ contract: the ability to restructure his deal at any time. Exercising this option would generate $20.996 million in cap space for 2025 by reducing his salary from $27.5 million to $1.255 million and distributing the difference as a bonus over five years.
Cap Space Maneuvering and What It Means
The Falcons recently freed up $20 million in cap space by restructuring the contracts of cornerback A.J. Terrell and guard Chris Lindstrom, placing them approximately $12 million under the 2025 cap limit. restructuring Cousins’ contract would further increase their financial flexibility.
To Restructure or Not to Restructure: The $20 Million Question
Restructuring Cousins’ contract would signal a genuine commitment to keeping him for 2025.Conversely, avoiding the restructuring indicates a possible trade. Trading Cousins without restructuring would force the Falcons to pay him a $26.245 million signing bonus and absorb a substantial cap hit.
Cousins’ No-trade Clause: A Potential Game Changer
While Cousins has a no-trade clause,the possibility of him waiving it exists if the alternative is remaining on the bench. Waiving the clause could allow Cousins to seek a deal with a team that lacks a quarterback solution after the 2025 draft, potentially gaining additional benefits in the process.
Could the Falcons realistically keep both Kirk Cousins *and* Michael Penix Jr. as long-term options at quarterback, given the financial implications discussed?
Falcons’ Quarterback Strategy: Are They Planning to Trade Kirk Cousins?
The Atlanta Falcons’ commitment to quarterback Kirk Cousins beyond the 2024 season is under scrutiny, with a key contractual detail suggesting a potential trade in 2025. Despite indications that Cousins woudl mentor Michael Penix Jr., their actions hint at a diffrent strategy.
Falcons’ inaction Speaks Volumes
The Falcons possess a unique provision within Cousins’ contract: the ability to restructure his deal at any time.Exercising this option would generate $20.996 million in cap space for 2025 by reducing his salary from $27.5 million to $1.255 million and distributing the difference as a bonus over five years.
Cap Space Maneuvering and What It Means
The Falcons recently freed up $20 million in cap space by restructuring the contracts of cornerback A.J.terrell and guard Chris Lindstrom, placing them approximately $12 million under the 2025 cap limit.restructuring Cousins’ contract would further increase their financial flexibility.
To Restructure or Not to Restructure: the $20 Million Question
Restructuring Cousins’ contract would signal a genuine commitment to keeping him for 2025.Conversely, avoiding the restructuring indicates a possible trade. Trading Cousins without restructuring would force the Falcons to pay him a $26.245 million signing bonus and absorb a ample cap hit.
Cousins’ No-trade Clause: A Potential Game Changer
While Cousins has a no-trade clause,the possibility of him waiving it exists if the option is remaining on the bench.Waiving the clause could allow Cousins to seek a deal with a team that lacks a quarterback solution after the 2025 draft, perhaps gaining additional benefits in the process.
Falcons’ Quarterback Strategy: Q&A
- Q: Why is Kirk Cousins’ future with the Falcons uncertain?
- A: The Falcons drafted Michael Penix Jr., signaling a potential shift towards Penix as their future quarterback. Also, a key contract detail allows them to restructure Cousins’ deal, and the decision to do so (or not) will indicate their intentions.
- Q: What does restructuring Cousins’ contract involve?
- A: Restructuring would free up over $20 million in cap space for 2025 by reducing his base salary and spreading the difference as a bonus over several years. This shows commitment and provides cap flexibility.
- Q: What happens if the Falcons don’t restructure Cousins’ contract?
- A: It could meen the Falcons intend to trade Cousins. Trading him without restructuring would create a large salary cap hit, making a trade less attractive. However, Cousins has a no-trade clause, which protects his position.
- Q: Could Cousins waive his no-trade clause?
- A: Yes, if he’s concerned about remaining on the bench, he might waive it to seek a better possibility with another team that needs a quarterback.This could allow him to negotiate a more favorable deal.
- Q: How does the draft factor into the situation?
- A: The Falcons drafted Michael Penix Jr., which suggests they are planning for him to become the starting quarterback.If Cousins is traded, Penix Jr. would have an opportunity to step up.
- Q: What’s the significance of the Falcons’ recent cap space moves?
- A: Restructuring the contracts of A.J. Terrell and Chris Lindstrom created cap space. This could be a strategic move,indicating the team is preparing for future moves,including potentially trading cousins or making a significant signing.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Falcons’ actions regarding Cousins’ contract will reveal their true intentions. Stay tuned to see if they restructure, trade, or keep the veteran quarterback.
