Breaking: 3 Reasons Atlanta Falcons fans shouldn’t be quick to turn on Kirk Cousins

Breaking: 3 Reasons Atlanta Falcons Fans Shouldn’t Be Quick to Turn on Kirk Cousins

The Atlanta Falcons have been in search of a quarterback who can consistently lead them to the playoffs and beyond. With the rise of rookie sensation Desmond Ridder and the anticipation of a bright future, some Falcons fans may be skeptical about a potential trade or acquisition for veteran quarterbacks like Kirk Cousins. However, before the fanbase jumps to conclusions, there are several reasons why they should not be so quick to turn on the idea of bringing Cousins to Atlanta.

One of the most crucial aspects of any NFL quarterback is their ability to consistently perform in big moments, and Kirk Cousins has proven that he can win games over the course of a long career. While some may point to his playoff struggles, it’s important to consider that Cousins has consistently been a top-tier quarterback in terms of regular-season production.

In 2023, Cousins threw for over 4,500 yards, with 29 touchdowns and just 14 interceptions. He has consistently ranked among the league’s top quarterbacks in passing yards, completion percentage, and QBR over the years. In fact, his numbers have been comparable to some of the best in the NFL, despite playing in a system that hasn’t always maximized his talents.

For a Falcons team that’s been inconsistent at the quarterback position since Matt Ryan’s departure, bringing in a quarterback like Cousins could provide immediate stability. His veteran leadership and ability to maintain high-level production would allow the Falcons to better compete in the NFC South and the NFC at large. In addition, his experience in both high-pressure situations and as a starter could help mentor a young quarterback like Ridder, if the team decides to go that route.

While Ridder has shown flashes of potential, the Falcons are in a unique position to compete for a playoff spot in 2024. With a young but talented roster—featuring dynamic players like Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Bijan Robinson—Atlanta is poised to make a push for a division title or a Wild Card spot. However, this will require solid quarterback play to maximize the offensive weapons at the team’s disposal.

Kirk Cousins has been known for his consistency in regular-season play and his ability to elevate those around him. While the Vikings haven’t always been Super Bowl contenders during his tenure, they’ve been competitive year-in and year-out, often thanks to Cousins’ strong performances. A win-now mentality with Cousins at the helm could help the Falcons capture more immediate success, while they continue to build a long-term future with Ridder or another potential quarterback of the future.

Furthermore, Cousins’ track record of healthy seasons is an appealing factor. The Falcons have had injury woes at quarterback in the past few years—most notably with the decline of Matt Ryan and brief stints from backups like Marcus Mariota. Cousins’ durability (he has missed just one game in the past five seasons) would be a welcome addition to a team looking to avoid the quarterback carousel.

Falcons fans may not realize it, but Kirk Cousins is no stranger to the type of offense that Arthur Smith runs in Atlanta. Smith, who came to Atlanta after a successful stint as offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, employs a balanced offensive attack that prioritizes a strong running game and play-action passing. This is something Cousins has excelled at during his time in Minnesota, particularly under offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski, who ran a similar system with the Vikings.

Cousins thrives in offenses that are predicated on a solid ground game to set up play-action, and that’s exactly what the Falcons are building in Atlanta with Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier in the backfield. With a reliable offensive line and playmakers like London and Pitts in the passing game, Cousins could thrive in a system that complements his strengths—allowing the Falcons’ offense to be more efficient and dangerous.

While there is no shortage of optimism around Desmond Ridder’s development, the potential addition of Kirk Cousins to the Falcons’ roster should not be dismissed out of hand. His proven consistency, ability to win now, and familiarity with Arthur Smith’s offensive philosophy make him a viable option for a team looking to take the next step toward contention. Falcons fans would be wise to keep an open mind about Cousins—he may just be the piece that helps push Atlanta back into playoff contention.