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11 hours ago
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The Atlanta Falcons are widely expected to release quarterback Kirk Cousins, but there's still a chance he finds his way on the team's roster in 2026.
According to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network, the Falcons are set to have conversations with Cousins on a potential return after they release him, as the franchise was impressed with his play at the end of the 2025 campaign.
"Do not rule out Atlanta [for Cousins]. I expect there to be conversations about a potential return there," Garafolo said.
Bringing back Cousins on a cheaper contract would be a masterful move from the Falcons. The 37-year-old played efficient football in eight starts in 2025 and led Atlanta to a 5-3 record.
Young quarterback Michael Penix Jr.'s status for the 2026 season is unknown, as he underwent ACL surgery in November.
Cousins returning to Atlanta would be a horrific development for the Minnesota Vikings, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Jets.
All three teams could pursue Cousins in free agency, as Minnesota needs to find veteran competition for J.J. McCarthy, and the Steelers could be back in the quarterback market searching for an Aaron Rodgers replacement.
The Jets are also going to be looking for a new starter after the Justin Fields' experiment failed. Signing Cousins to be the bridge starter and possible mentor for a rookie signal-caller would be an ideal situation for New Yorl\k.
We'll see where Cousins ends up playing in 2026, but if he hits the market, as expected, anything can happen.
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