After two years of inconsistent quarterback play, the Atlanta Falcons made a bold move in the offseason by signing Kirk Cousins to stabilize the position. At 36, Cousins continues to perform at a high level when healthy, and the Falcons are counting on him to lead the team in 2024.
Although the Falcons drafted Washington QB Michael Penix in the first round, the coaching staff has made it clear that this is Cousins' team. The veteran signal-caller boasts an impressive career with 39,471 passing yards, 270 touchdowns, and 110 interceptions over 12 NFL seasons.
Despite his age, Cousins received some recognition from Pro Football Focus, landing at No. 8 on their list of the top 30 players over 30. According to John Kosko from PFF:
"Cousins was playing the best football of his career in 2023 before tearing his Achilles tendon in Week 8. If he can return to the field and pick up where he left off, the Falcons can be legitimate contenders in 2024."
Before his injury, Cousins was on track to play well into his late thirties. There's still a good chance that will happen in Atlanta, but Penix provides a solid backup plan in case Cousins' performance starts to slip. Penix, considered one of the more NFL-ready quarterbacks in this year's draft class, is ready to step up if needed. Plus, the Falcons still have Taylor Heinicke under contract, who took a pay cut to stay with the team over the offseason.
In a fun fact, Cousins was the only Falcons player to make PFF's top 30 over 30 list. San Francisco 49ers offensive lineman Trent Williams topped the list at No. 1.
With Cousins leading the charge and solid backup options in Penix and Heinicke, the Falcons are poised for an exciting season. If Cousins can come back strong, Atlanta could very well be in the mix for a playoff run in 2024.
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