The Minnesota Vikings drew a line in the sand with Kirk Cousins after the four-time Pro Bowler missed nine games in 2024, and their decision paid off in the form of a historic season with Sam Darnold at the helm.

Dec 8, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) celebrates running back Bijan Robinson's (7) touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings during the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

The 2024 season was arguably the worst of Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins ‘ 13-year NFL career. Coming off an Achilles injury that prematurely ended his 2023 campaign, Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million deal with the quarterback-needy Falcons in free agency.

Either way, the Falcons appear to be committed to Penix as their No. 1 QB going forward after he closed the regular season with three strong performances as the team’s starter, while Atlanta lost four of Cousins’ five final starts. The team could either trade or release Cousins, who also battled injuries last season.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins's departure from the organization is imminent, according to ESPN insider Adam Schefter.

Kirk Cousins talks to us about how injuries affected his playing time this season in Atlanta. He also talks abot his partnership with Lowes and P&G.