Falcons in crisis: Kirk Cousins could be traded, Penix Jr. pushed to start, and Younghoe Koo's job at risk
The Atlanta Falcons are heading into the 2025 NFL season with big questions still unanswered. From Kirk Cousins' uncertain future to rookie Michael Penix Jr.'s growing momentum, and a sudden kicking competition, the team is under pressure to make the right moves.
Kirk Cousins trade rumors
still swirling
Kirk Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million deal with the Falcons in March. But just months later, reports surfaced that the team was exploring trade options. According to Pro Football Network's Jacob Infante, Atlanta could even consider cutting Cousins if no deal materializes, though doing so would trigger a $10 million cap hit.
'He's more of a trade candidate than a cut candidate,'
Infante noted.
'But if it reaches the point where Cousins refuses to suit up for Atlanta, they could have a tough choice to make.'
The situation remains fluid. While Cousins recovers from an Achilles injury, the team must weigh financial consequences against locker room chemistry and long-term planning.
Atlanta Falcons reportedly asking too much in Kirk Cousins trade | Pro Football Talk | NFL on NBC
Michael Penix Jr. gaining locker room support
Amid the Cousins drama, rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is quietly turning heads. Selected No. 8 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Penix has already impressed several teammates—none more vocal than wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud.
'Boy, I'm excited… I've watched [Penix] every day at practice,'
McCloud said.
'I'm just ready to see him go into an experienced year, a polished year, and see how it goes — go all the way to the Super Bowl.'
Penix's dual-threat ability, leadership, and college resume make him a strong candidate to start sooner than expected, especially if Cousins is traded or sidelined longer.
Younghoe Koo now in a real kicking battle
For the first time since 2020, Younghoe Koo's role isn't guaranteed. The Falcons signed kicker Lenny Krieg, creating open competition.
Koo missed nine field goals last season—two of which were blocked—but special teams coordinator Marquice Williams publicly defended him.
Still, the addition of Krieg signals real pressure. Koo's performance in camp and preseason will determine whether he retains his starting job.
FAQs
Will the Atlanta Falcons trade Kirk Cousins before the 2025 NFL season?
The Falcons are reportedly open to trading Kirk Cousins, but no deal has materialized yet. Cutting him would result in a $10 million cap hit, making a trade the more likely option if the situation escalates.
Is Michael Penix Jr. expected to start for the Falcons in 2025?
While Kirk Cousins is still on the roster, Michael Penix Jr. has gained strong support from teammates and could start if Cousins is traded or sidelined. His development is a top storyline heading into training camp.
Why is Younghoe Koo facing competition for the kicker role?
After missing nine field goals in 2024, the Falcons signed kicker Lenny Krieg to compete with Younghoe Koo. While some misses were blocked, the team wants reliability, making this an open battle during training camp.
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Falcons enter 2025 camp with key roster questions
From quarterback drama to special teams shake-ups, the Falcons have no shortage of storylines heading into camp. Kirk Cousins' trade rumors, Michael Penix Jr.'s rapid rise, and Younghoe Koo's job security will dominate headlines and could define Atlanta's season.
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