Falcons Surprise Kirk Cousins with Draft Pick, Speculation of Future Trade Arises
In a surprising move, the Atlanta Falcons selected rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in this year’s NFL draft, despite having recently signed Kirk Cousins to a contract with $100 million in guarantees. Cousins, who was caught off guard by the decision, expressed his surprise at the move, especially considering the significant investment the team had made in him.
Speculation has begun to circulate around the league that the Falcons may look to trade Cousins in 2025, as they are one of the few teams to try a multiyear quarterback apprenticeship during the current rookie pay-scale era. However, Cousins remained unfazed by the rumors, stating that he doesn’t deal in hypotheticals and is looking forward to the opportunity to work with the Falcons.
Drawing parallels to his time in Washington when both he and Robert Griffin III were drafted in 2012, Cousins acknowledged the unique situation he finds himself in with the Falcons. The team’s decision to draft a quarterback only came after a new coaching staff arrived following free agency, signaling a shift in the organization’s long-term plans at the position.
Falcons national scout Joel Collier played a significant role in evaluating and ultimately selecting Penix in the draft, indicating the team’s confidence in the young quarterback’s potential. Cousins, who is currently recovering from a torn Achilles, is nearing full clearance and is expected to be ready for camp as he continues his rehabilitation.
As Penix’s development progresses, all eyes will be on how he assimilates into the Falcons’ system while Cousins focuses on his recovery. The dynamic between the veteran quarterback and the rookie will be one to watch as the Falcons navigate this new chapter in their quarterback room.
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