The Atlanta Falcons appear ready to turn back to veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins for their Week 8 clash against the Miami Dolphins. As per ESPN, Cousins is highly likely to start on Sunday with rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. nursing a knee injury.
Penix suffered a bone bruise in his left knee and was limited in practice all week, prompting the team to prepare Cousins to take over first-team duties. If he starts, it will mark Cousins’ first real action of the 2025 season.
The 36-year-old has seen minimal game time so far, making only a brief appearance earlier in the year against the Carolina Panthers. The Falcons coaching staff gave him more reps this week, signaling that the veteran will lead the offense against a Miami defense that has struggled with consistency this season.
Cousins joined the Falcons in 2024 on a massive four-year, $180 million contract, expected to be the face of the franchise. However, the team drafted Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in the same year, creating one of the most surprising quarterback dynamics in the league.
Cousins had an up-and-down 2024 campaign, throwing for over 3,500 yards and 18 touchdowns but also leading the league with 16 interceptions. His turnover issues and the team’s push toward youth led to him being benched late last season.
Now, with Penix recovering, Cousins gets another opportunity to prove his value and stabilize Atlanta’s offense. The matchup against Miami could be crucial for both his confidence and the Falcons’ midseason rhythm.
Whether this start turns into a short-term fill-in or a longer run will depend largely on how he performs in his return to the spotlight.
Kirk Cousins Addressed Trade Rumors
In September 2025, Atlanta Falcons backup quarterback Kirk Cousins spoke about his approach to the NFL trade deadline amid growing speculation about his future. The veteran said he remains focused on staying sharp and prepared despite sitting behind rookie Michael Penix Jr. on the depth chart.
Reports from multiple outlets suggested the Falcons were open to trading Cousins before the November 4 deadline, potentially in exchange for a premium draft pick while covering part of his salary. The team had already locked in a $10 million roster bonus earlier in the year by keeping him past March.
“Right now, it’s just about the role I’m in, and focused in on helping us win football games and being ready for the next challenges we face,” Cousins said, per FOX Sports’ Greg Auman. “I’ll stay sharp, and you never know what the league will bring.”
His professionalism and experience continue to make him a valuable presence in the locker room, even though trade rumors have swirled around his name.
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