While the Atlanta Falcons missed the playoffs, they have found their quarterback of the present and future in Michael Penix. But Penix’s emergence has left Kirk Cousins’ future with the Falcons hanging in the balance.

Perhaps the biggest layer is Cousins's no-trade clause. He has the right to waive it and decline trades to other teams, which makes sense for his camp considering a trade would detract assets from his new team. Fontenot said whether the Falcons can adjust Cousins's no-trade clause is a private discussion that will happen in due time.

When the Atlanta Falcons benched Kirk Cousins for rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. late in December, the move signaled a shift toward the

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero: Atlanta Falcons are 'comfortable' with Kirk Cousins as backup quarterback in 2025. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero: Atlanta Falcons are 'comfortable' with Kirk Cousins as backup quarterback in 2025.

Kirk Cousins’ future hangs in the balance. Whilst rumors have floated around about his future, surrounding potential trades, the front office have downplayed notions of Cousins’ impending departure, insisting – somewhat curiously – that they would be happy for him to stick around on the team.

Could Kirk Cousins reunite with Kevin Stefanski in Cleveland? Here's why this rumor has people talking-and why you shouldn't believe it just yet.

Kirk Cousins and the defense. They will have to explore ways of getting rid of the veteran while supporting their franchise quarterback in Michael Penix Jr.