Kirk Cousins' tenure with the Atlanta Falcons began promisingly, but a series of misfortunes has led to uncertainty regarding his future. After signing a significant four-year, $180 million contract, he initially guided the Falcons to a 6-3 start, including a remarkable 509-yard passing game. However, a subsequent four-game losing streak, exacerbated by injuries and poor performance, saw him benched in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. Cousins' struggles were highlighted by eight interceptions and a failure to throw a touchdown during this decline.

The Falcons finished the season at 8-9, missing the playoffs. Moving forward, Cousins has expressed a desire to start for another team in 2025, but his hefty salary and no-trade clause complicate any potential moves. Falcons management appears content to retain him as a backup, particularly given his professionalism shown during the offseason program. Speculations about his future are rife, with discussions linking him to teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers if Aaron Rodgers does not make the leap there.