"Starter Michael Penix Jr. was healthy when his Week 3 participation came to an end, but he was benched with the game out of hand. Penix completed 18 of 36 attempts for 172 yards and a pair of interceptions. Cousins took over and went five-for-seven in mop-up duty. For the time being, his future is set to consist of further backup duties as a member of the Falcons."
"Cousins requested a trade this past offseason once it became clear Atlanta would hand the reins over to Penix on a full-time basis. That was the situation at the end of the 2024 campaign, and after being selected eighth overall Penix naturally represents the Falcons' long-term plan under center. At no point did a Cousins trade appear imminent over the summer, though, and that is still the case at this point."
"Of course, finances are a major factor in this case. Cousins' 2025 salary ($27.5MM) is guaranteed in full, and his $10MM roster bonus for next March is already locked in. Keeping in line with their earlier stance, the Falcons would only entertain a trade involving the 37-year-old if an interested team were to take on the remainder of his compensation. Rapoport adds a "premium" draft pick would also be required for Atlanta to sign off on a Cousins trade."
Week 3 produced a blowout loss to the Panthers in which Kirk Cousins entered late, marking his first game action with Atlanta. Michael Penix Jr. was benched with the game out of hand after going 18-of-36 for 172 yards and two interceptions. Cousins went five-for-seven in mop-up duty and is expected to remain a backup. Atlanta has received no trade inquiries for Cousins and no in-season market exists while teams manage short-term quarterback injuries and a key franchise does not plan to add a veteran passer. Cousins' 2025 salary is fully guaranteed and his $10MM roster bonus is locked in; Atlanta would require a team to assume his remaining pay and surrender a premium draft pick.
Read at Pro Football Rumors
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