The Falcons’ decision on Kirk Cousins bodes well for the Vikings and Steelers was first published on The Sporting News. You can designate The Sporting News as a Preferred Source here.
The Atlanta Falcons have now revealed their plan concerning quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Advertisement
Per The Athletic’s Josh Kendall, Falcons general manager Ian Cunningham informed 92.9 The Game on Tuesday that Cousins is set to be released by the team on March 11, coinciding with the start of the new league year.
Cunningham stated, “We believed it was the appropriate choice, out of consideration for both Kirk [Cousins] and Michael [Penix].”
Naturally, this outcome was anticipated, particularly after the Falcons restructured Cousins’ contract, making his eventual release unavoidable.
This development is advantageous for both the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings, as both teams might be seeking a seasoned starting quarterback for the 2026 season.
Reports suggest it’s a certainty that the Vikings will acquire a veteran player.
Advertisement
The Minnesota squad requires a backup plan for J.J. McCarthy and might even consider a complete replacement. Cousins presents a suitable option for this position, particularly due to his familiarity with the Vikings’ offensive scheme under coach Kevin O’Connell.
Concurrently, the Steelers are still awaiting Aaron Rodgers’ decision.
Should the esteemed future Hall of Famer opt for retirement or another team, Pittsburgh’s roster would then consist of the untested Will Howard and reserve Mason Rudolph.
Under those circumstances, the Steelers might contemplate Cousins as an alternative, considering their apparent reluctance to undergo a full rebuild in 2026.
Advertisement
Nevertheless, we continue to view the Vikings as the prime candidate to sign Cousins.