The Atlanta Falcons made a significant splash in the offseason, securing veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins on a four-year, $180 million contract following his departure from the Minnesota Vikings. This move comes despite Cousins' age of 36 and his recent recovery from a torn Achilles tendon sustained in October.
Cousins made his debut for the Falcons in their first test of the season against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The veteran quarterback managed to complete 16 of 26 passes for 155 yards. His performance, however, was marked by one touchdown against two interceptions, and he was sacked twice. The Falcons ultimately fell to the Steelers with a final score of 18-10—a disappointing start for the team and their new quarterback.
"The Achilles feels good," Cousins remarked after the game. "I feel like I can move and push as I normally would."
Despite the loss and a performance that left room for improvement, Cousins dismissed any notion that his injury could be used as an excuse. "I feel good. The Achilles feels good," he reiterated. "I feel like I can move and push as I normally would."
The team's low-scoring game highlighted some of the challenges Atlanta faces as they aim to rebuild and compete this season. The Falcons have invested heavily in their quarterback position, not only by signing Cousins but also by using their No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft to draft promising Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
The decision to pair a seasoned veteran like Cousins with a high-potential rookie like Penix Jr. is a strategic one. It shows the Falcons' commitment to balancing immediate competitive play with future growth. Whether Cousins’ experience can hasten Penix Jr.'s development remains to be seen, but the combination offers an intriguing storyline for Falcons fans and analysts alike.
Next up for the Falcons is a game against the Philadelphia Eagles, which presents another challenging opportunity to gauge the efficacy of Cousins' comeback and the team’s overall direction. Adjustments will likely be necessary if Atlanta is to bounce back from the loss to the Steelers and demonstrate their playoff aspirations.
As the season progresses, attention will undoubtedly focus on Cousins' ability to fully put his injury behind him and lead a young team. His veteran presence is expected to be a stabilizing force, and the fact that he feels physically fit bodes well for the Falcons’ plans.
After the game against the Steelers, it was clear that Cousins still has a drive to compete, offering a sense of optimism for what's to come. "The Achilles feels good. I feel like I can move and push as I normally would," he repeated, emphasizing his readiness to contribute significantly to his new team.
Only time will tell if this bold move by the Falcons' management will pay dividends, but for now, all eyes are on Kirk Cousins as he strives to prove that age and injury won't impede his quest for success in Atlanta.