Falcons great Matt Ryan makes feelings known on Kirk Cousins being benched in favour of Michael Penix Jr
The Atlanta Falcons announced this week that Kirk Cousins would be benched in favor of Michael Penix Jr. The rookie quarterback is expected to start the final three games of the season for the Falcons.
On Sunday morning, former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, who now works for CBS, was asked about his feelings on the quarterback change. Ryan said that from what he has seen, Cousins struggled with the deep ball and making passes when needed. The former NFL quarterback believes Michael Penix Jr., has the arm to make those plays and help improve the offense.
"It appeared to me all season that Kirk just didn't have the firepower to push the ball to the sideline," Ryan said. "I think Michael Penix certainly has that arm. I also think the deep shots down the field, given what they do in the run game, right? Sucking, you know, safeties moving them up, the ability to throw the football over the top, I think, is critical for them. So I expect Michael to play well."-Matt Ryan said on Sunday's NFL on CBS.
Matt Ryan also said that from what he has heard from those employed by the Falcons, Michael Penix Jr., has done everything he can to prepare for this moment.
Atlanta Falcons expected to cut QB Kirk Cousins this offseason
Quarterback Kirk Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million deal with the Atlanta Falcons In March 2024. This move came after Cousins' contract with the Minnesota Vikings came to a close. Now, after 14 starts with the Falcons where he had a 7-7 record, Cousins is likely on his way out.
On Saturday afternoon, ESPN's NFL Insider Adam Schefter reported that Atlanta is expected to cut Kirk Cousins before his $10 million roster bonus is due on March 17, 2025.
Cousins has a full no-trade clause and apparently, the Atlanta Falcons don't believe that he would waive it to do them a favor and get a return in the trade.
In 14 starts this season, Cousins threw for 3,508 passing yards, 18 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. He also had 13 fumbles, two of which were lost and was sacked 28 times for a loss of 201 yards.