If you thought the Kirk Cousins era in Atlanta was over, not so fast. Despite widespread expectations that the Falcons will release the veteran quarterback, there’s still a real possibility he could be back in the fold for 2026.
According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the Falcons plan to have conversations with Cousins about a potential return after they release him - a move that would give Atlanta more flexibility financially. And based on how Cousins closed out the 2025 season, the team has reason to be intrigued.
“Do not rule out Atlanta [for Cousins],” Garafolo said. “I expect there to be conversations about a potential return there.”
Let’s unpack that. Cousins, now 37, started eight games last season and led the Falcons to a 5-3 record in those contests. He wasn’t lighting up the stat sheet, but he played smart, efficient football - the kind of steady hand that can keep a team competitive, especially when the rest of the roster is still developing.
And right now, Atlanta’s quarterback situation is anything but stable. Michael Penix Jr., the young signal-caller the Falcons are grooming for the future, is recovering from ACL surgery he underwent in November. There’s no clear timeline yet for his return, which leaves a big question mark under center heading into 2026.
That’s where Cousins comes in. If the Falcons can bring him back on a more team-friendly deal, it could be a savvy piece of roster management - a way to bridge the gap while Penix gets healthy, without overcommitting financially. It’s the kind of move that keeps the locker room steady and the offense functional.
But Atlanta isn’t the only team watching this situation closely. If Cousins does hit the open market, he’ll have suitors - and some of them are in desperate need of quarterback help.
Start with Minnesota. The Vikings are in the process of grooming J.J.
McCarthy, but they still need a veteran presence in the room - someone who can push the rookie, mentor him, and step in if needed. Cousins, who knows the system and the culture, would be a natural fit.
Then there’s Pittsburgh. With Aaron Rodgers no longer in the picture, the Steelers could be back in the market for a proven starter. Cousins might not be a long-term answer, but he could provide stability while the team figures out its next move at the position.
And don’t forget about the Jets. After the Justin Fields experiment didn’t pan out, New York is back to square one. Bringing in a veteran like Cousins to serve as a bridge - and potentially mentor a rookie if they go that route in the draft - could be exactly what the Jets need to steady the ship.
Bottom line: Cousins may be approaching the twilight of his career, but he’s still a capable starter in a league where quarterback play is at a premium. Whether he returns to Atlanta or moves on to a new opportunity, his next landing spot could have ripple effects across multiple franchises.
For now, the ball is in Atlanta’s court. If they want Cousins back - and on their terms - the next few weeks will be critical.