Kirk Cousins recently attended the Falcons’ voluntary offseason program (OTAs). Many found this shocking, considering all the speculation of trading the veteran quarterback. With Michael Penix being a sure starter, where does this lead for Kirk and the Falcons’ future?
What Kirk Cousins’ Workout Attendance Means for Falcons’ Future
What Raheem Morris said ahead of Voluntary Activities
Raheem Morris sat down and answered questions for reporters a few days ago during the annual NFL meeting in Florida. Morris was asked several questions about Cousins, specifically about the upcoming voluntary offseason program (OTAs). In short, Morris stated that he would enjoy seeing Cousins at OTAs and “welcome (Kirk) with open arms” if he attended. However, he also said that he would understand the “business decision” if he did not attend.
Now that Kirk has decided to attend the OTAs, it seems the Atlanta Falcons are still happy to see him work out with the team. Does this mean a long-term relationship with the two parties is still possible?
Kirk Cousins on Future with Falcons
The front office of Atlanta has not denied taking calls on trading for the veteran quarterback. More notably, the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers have sent in offers if he were to be on the trade block. Cousins has stated on multiple occasions that he wants to compete to be a starter. Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot both have stated in interviews that when speaking to Cousins, he made it obvious he understands the situation and still wants to compete. Morris stated that the front office will do “what’s best for the Falcons. … we won’t hold him back if the opportunity presents itself. He’s made it clear he’d like to be a starter.”
Expect with the second day of the NFL Draft tonight that teams start to call looking to move ahead or trade down. The Falcons might look to shop Cousins around to see if they could get any second or third-round picks. It was speculated before that the Falcons were shopping “too expensive” for Cousins before, so a first-round pick was likely out of the picture a while ago. It was also speculated that the Falcons were asking teams to take on $20 million of Cousins’ contract agreement with Atlanta, but Terry Fontenot recently denied these rumors in a press conference.
Trade Clause?
Atlanta cannot theoretically do anything with Kirk Cousins until he waives his no-trade clause. They can field calls, they can listen to offers, and they can relay these offers by Cousins… but he will have to waive the clause first. If the Falcons receive an offer and Kirk likes the team that is sending in the offer, he will likely waive the clause. However, this leaves Cousins in full control of whether he goes or stays.
How Workouts Could Help Cousins
By appearing at these workouts, Cousins might be doing himself a favor. It might not help him climb for the starting job in Atlanta, but NFL teams take notice. Teams take notice when a guy will go out and compete despite circumstances unfavorable like this. Not only that, but it clears up any speculation that his previous Achilles injury could still be affecting him. He has proven with these workouts that he is hungry to compete. He could have easily stayed back and not shown for the workouts. They are voluntary, nobody would have batted an eye. Especially given his situation, it would make sense for him not to attend. Kirk Cousins is a competitor. Teams will take notice and expect the calls for him to grow louder in Atlanta.
Main Photo: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
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