Kirk Cousins Set to Start for Falcons Amidst Losing Streak and QB Uncertainty

Kirk Cousins will start at quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons for the remainder of the season following Michael Penix Jr.'s season-ending ACL tear. Cousins, who is due to make a non-guaranteed $45 million next year, is likely to be cut, leaving the Falcons in a precarious position at quarterback. This development occurs as the Falcons are on a five-game losing streak, their longest since 2020, and face uncertainty regarding the futures of head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot. Morris has accepted responsibility for the team's struggles, stating, "It definitely is on me. There's no such thing as a losing team; there's only a losing leader." The team also faces the challenge of not having their 2026 first-round draft pick, which is now projected to be the No. 8 overall selection, due to a previous trade. Wide receiver Drake London is also sidelined with a knee injury, further impacting the team's offensive capabilities.