Jamie Lamor Thompson / Shutterstock.com
Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback, Kirk Cousins, didn’t think he’d be sitting on the bench behind a rookie this season. He signed a big contract with the Falcons to help them win more games and reach the playoffs. But things didn’t go as planned.
By Week 9, the Falcons were doing well with a 6-3 record, leading their division after beating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Exciting times for Atlanta fans!
But then, things took a turn for the worse. The Falcons started losing games, and their hopes of winning the division seemed to slip away. After four losses in a row, they decided it was time for a change.
Falcons’ head coach Raheem Morris announced that rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. would take over for the last three games. Cousins got the news through a phone call and immediately reached out to Penix to offer support. According to ESPN’s Marc Raimondi, Cousins said, “Just let him know I’d be in his corner and supporting him and trying to help him any way I can.”
Cousins, who recently returned from an Achilles injury, acknowledged his struggles. Despite his efforts, he couldn’t meet the high expectations set for him or himself. Nine interceptions over five games sealed his fate on the bench.
“It’s pro football, and there’s a standard that I have for myself,” Cousins said. “And so, it is what it is, and you roll with it.” He emphasized being ready to step in if needed and supporting Penix.
The future remains uncertain for Cousins. After the season ends, the Falcons will need to decide whether to trade or release him despite the financial implications.
