"Prediction: Falcons to Release Kirk Cousins Prior to $10M Bonus Deadline"

According to ESPN, the Atlanta Falcons are anticipated to release Kirk Cousins before the March 17 deadline in order to avoid paying his $10 million roster bonus. This news comes after the quarterback was demoted and replaced by Michael Penix Jr., the No. 8 pick in the 2024 draft, as the starting quarterback for the team moving forward.

Cousins, who is currently 36 years old, managed to throw one touchdown pass during Monday's game against the Las Vegas Raiders, breaking a four-game losing streak. However, he leads the NFL with 18 turnovers, including 16 interceptions.

The quarterback was signed as a free agent in March to a four-year, $140 million contract that includes a no-trade clause. On March 17, he is expected to receive a $10 million roster bonus for the 2026 season.

Also see this picks: Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears Pick & Prediction DECEMBER 22nd 2024 Also see this picks: Los Angeles Rams vs. New York Jets Pick & Prediction DECEMBER 22nd 2024

Sources have revealed that a trade is unlikely to occur between Cousins and the Falcons, as the quarterback may not be willing to do any favors for the team that benched him, and the Falcons may not want to incur any additional costs for a player they have already paid $90 million for in just 14 games.

Despite his demotion, Cousins appears to be handling the situation well. He has reached out to Penix to offer his support and assistance in any way possible.

During a press conference, Cousins acknowledged that he did not meet the team's standards consistently and is now focused on supporting Penix and helping the team win their remaining games to secure a spot in the playoffs.

Falcons coach Raheem Morris praised Cousins for handling the demotion professionally.

Morris stated, "Any time you take a step down, and demotion, whatever the case may be, it's not going to be met with great appreciation. But Kirk was a professional. He's a man, he's a great human, great father, he's a great football player. He's done a lot of great things for us this year. He handled it with class. He's an absolute professional. I can't say enough good things about who the man is. Obviously, it comes with some disappointment when you lose your job."

The Falcons, who currently have a record of 7-7, are behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-6) in the NFC South race. In their upcoming game against the Washington Commanders (9-5), which will be featured on "Sunday Night Football" in Week 17, their playoff position could be at stake if they win and the NFC-East leading Eagles also win their game against the Commanders this week.

Cousins previously played for Washington (2012-17) and Minnesota (2018-23) before joining the Falcons.

Also see this picks: New York Giants vs. Atlanta Falcons Pick & Prediction DECEMBER 22nd 2024 Also see this picks: New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills Pick & Prediction DECEMBER 22nd 2024

As a four-time Pro Bowl selection, Cousins has a career record of 83-74-2 in 159 starts. He has thrown for 42,979 yards, with 288 touchdowns and 126 interceptions.