Kirk Cousins had a standout moment in the Atlanta Falcons’ thrilling 29–28 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As the clock wound down, Zane Gonzalez kicked a 43-yard field goal that gave the Falcons the win, but it was Cousins’ performance that turned heads.
Now in the second year of a hefty four-year, $180 million contract, Cousins finds himself in a tricky situation. With Michael Penix Jr. set as the starter, Atlanta could release Cousins next season and save $22.5 million. If that happens, he’s likely to attract plenty of interest in the free-agent market.
In that game, Cousins completed 30 of 44 passes for 373 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing he still possesses high-level skills, despite doubts about his future. Just a season ago, he had faced challenges, throwing an alarming number of interceptions.
What makes this situation even more intriguing is the landscape for quarterbacks heading into the upcoming free agency. There are not many reliable options available. Aaron Rodgers might consider retiring, and Daniel Jones is coming off a serious injury. This positions Cousins as a potentially hot commodity.
Historically, the quarterback market has seen players like Cousins, who faced skepticism, rise to success after a significant performance, much like what we witnessed recently. Teams like the Vikings and Colts could see value in adding Cousins. The Vikings might look for a solid backup to support their young starter, J.J. McCarthy, while the Colts could need a bridge quarterback if they retain Jones.
Twitter and other social media platforms have seen lively discussions about Cousins, with fans debating his merits. In one recent poll, about 60% of followers expressed enthusiasm about Cousins joining their team if he hits the market.
In summary, Cousins went from struggling to shining in one game. His impressive performance against the Buccaneers could lead to a fresh start with another team, giving him another chance to show that he’s more than just a footnote in NFL history. The Falcons’ win not only marked a highlight in their challenging season but may have opened new doors for Cousins’ career.
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