Falcons Set to Fully Guarantee Kirk Cousins’ $10 Million Roster Bonus in 2026: What It Means for the Team and Fans

Executives in the NFL don’t always hit the mark. Recently, there was a widespread belief that the Atlanta Falcons would cut quarterback Kirk Cousins to avoid a $10 million roster bonus that kicks in for 2026. However, new reports from ESPN indicate that the Falcons have decided to let the deadline for his release pass without action.

Some fans misinterpreted the situation, thinking that the Falcons owed Cousins $10 million right away. In reality, that payment isn’t due until next year. If the team decides to cut him before March 2026, they could still manage the costs. There’s little concern for the Falcons since they’ve already paid him $62.5 million last season and will owe him $27.5 million this year. So, that final $10 million guarantee doesn’t seem to worry the organization much.

Although Cousins has a no-trade clause, he might reconsider it if a starter position opens up elsewhere. If he wants to maximize his chances of playing, he could choose to waive that clause, especially if he’s traded to a team in need of a quarterback, such as the Steelers or Giants.

As teams prepare for the NFL draft, Cousins should bide his time. If he’s traded before teams select new quarterbacks, he could find himself in a similar situation to last year when he joined the Falcons.

The changing dynamics of the game and player contracts often surprise fans. A recent survey showed that about 64% of NFL fans believe managing salaries and bonuses is just as critical as game strategy. This emphasizes the importance of smart decision-making off the field.

Ultimately, the Falcons’ choice not to rush Cousins’ release could lead to a more strategic approach, balancing immediate salary concerns with long-term team health. As the league evolves, how teams handle player contracts will remain a hot topic. Interested readers can find more detailed analysis on this development from sources like ESPN.

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