Kirk Cousins' time with the Falcons is nearing its end, and it's shaping up to be a significant move in the NFL landscape.
The Falcons have restructured Cousins' contract, pushing most of his 2026 salary into 2027, with a key vesting date set for March 13. If Cousins remains on the roster past this date, his 2027 salary would be fully guaranteed at a hefty $67.9 million. General Manager Ian Cunningham has confirmed that Cousins will be released before this deadline, making it official during an interview on 92.9 The Game.
Cunningham explained, “Obviously, the contract structure allows that to occur.” This strategic decision means Cousins will be designated as a post-June 1 cut.
For the Falcons, this approach spreads his remaining cap hit over the next two years, easing their financial burden. For Cousins, it means hitting free agency right when the market opens, giving him a prime opportunity to explore new options.
This announcement sends a clear signal to teams in need of a quarterback: Kirk Cousins will soon be available. It’s a move that could shift the dynamics of the offseason, as franchises can now plan with the certainty that a seasoned quarterback like Cousins is entering the mix. Keep an eye on how this unfolds, as it could have a ripple effect across the league.