During the NFL scouting combine, Atlanta Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris discussed the team’s lack of awareness regarding quarterback Kirk Cousins’ injury in the 2024 season.
Cousins had revealed during Super Bowl week that he injured his right shoulder and elbow during a Week 10 game against the New Orleans Saints. He noted that the injuries never fully recovered, affecting his performance for the remainder of the season. However, the Falcons claimed they were unaware of the severity of his condition.
Falcons Attribute Cousins’ Struggles to Performance, Benching Due to Poor Play, Not Injury
The Falcons did place Cousins on the injury report during Week 11, citing his right shoulder and elbow issues. This was the only official mention of injury throughout the season, and Cousins explained that it was simply a “clerical error.”
Despite the brief injury report, Fontenot and Morris maintained that the team was not aware of the extent of Cousins’ injuries. The quarterback’s struggles after Week 10, including nine interceptions and only one touchdown pass, were attributed to performance issues rather than injury.
Kirk Cousins (NFL)In Week 16, Cousins was benched in favor of rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. The Falcons’ decision was presented as a football-based move, with coach Morris emphasizing that the change was driven by poor performance, including a high number of interceptions and a lack of touchdowns.
Morris explained that the decision had nothing to do with Cousins’ injury but rather the need for better play on the field. Morris stated that Cousins should be the one to address any injury-related claims.
Falcons Stick to Plan with Cousins as Backup Despite Injury and Financial Concerns
Fontenot clarified that the team’s philosophy regarding Cousins had not changed despite the injury remarks. He reaffirmed that Cousins would remain Penix’s backup quarterback for the foreseeable future. The general manager also indicated that any private discussions with Cousins or his agent regarding the injury would remain confidential, as the Falcons were focused on moving forward with their current roster structure.
The Falcons are facing significant financial considerations if they release Cousins. Cutting him before the start of the 2025 league year would trigger a massive $65 million in dead money, which includes his guaranteed salary and prorated signing bonus. However, if Cousins is released with a post-June 1 designation, the dead money would be split between the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
The Falcons seem inclined to explore trade options to recoup some compensation, although they would still likely absorb a significant portion of Cousins’ contract. Fontenot emphasized that despite Cousins’ backup role, the team was comfortable with the financial commitment, given that the contract was initially structured for him to be a starting quarterback.