Falcons predicted to make expensive $10 million Kirk Cousins decision that could backfire

There’s no doubt that the biggest thorn in the Atlanta Falcons’ side right now is Kirk Cousins and his contract. Recently, Netflix’s Quarterback documentary aired, and Cousins revealed that had he known the Falcons were going to draft Michael Penix Jr., he likely would have chosen a different team in free agency.

“Certainly, if I had that information around free agency, it would've affected my decision. I had no reason to leave Minnesota, with how much we loved it there, if both teams were going to be drafting a quarterback high. But I've also learned in 12 years in this league that you're not entitled to anything — it's all about earning your spot and proving yourself,” Cousins said.

Cousins played through injuries last season in an effort to hold onto his QB1 job, but it eventually became too much, leading to him being benched. It seems he never truly felt secure in his starting role.

“Teams are not allowed to demand a player be subjected to a medical evaluation/physical against his will,” Atlanta reporter Joe Patrick wrote. “After selecting Penix, the Falcons made every effort otherwise to affirm Cousins as the true QB1. Obviously Kirk never felt real security or he probably would’ve been more honest about his injury.”

Pro Football Network’s Jacob Infante believes the Falcons could eventually cut Cousins if the situation escalates—but doing so wouldn’t come cheap.

“Realistically, a Kirk Cousins trade might be more realistic for the Atlanta Falcons, seeing as though cutting him would actually cost them $10 million this year,” Infante wrote. “He’s more of a trade candidate than a cut candidate, but if it reaches the point where Cousins refuses to suit up for Atlanta, they could have a tough choice to make.”