


No one can predict the future for Kirk Cousins, including — apparently — the Falcons.
According to the NFL Network, Cousins — benched in favor of Michael Penix Jr. for the Falcons’ final three games — and the team haven’t discussed his future.
“Sources say there has been no communication between the two sides since the season ended, and really, there is nothing to discuss,” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero wrote on Sunday.
“Could they still trade him? Hard to imagine, with Cousins having a no-trade clause and preferring to be cut.”
This comes less than a year after Atlanta signed Cousins to a four-year deal that could have been worth $180 million — with $90 million guaranteed.
That union got off to a rocky start when Atlanta, shortly after signing the four-time Pro Bowler, drafted Penix with the eighth overall pick.
Cousins, 36, spent six seasons in Washington and another six in Minnesota.
He’s also due a $10 million roster bonus if he’s still on Atlanta’s roster on March 17.
The four-time Pro-Bowler started 14 games for the Falcons before being benched for Penix.

Even though Cousins didn’t last the season as a starter, he still threw 16 interceptions — tied for the most in the NFL.
Atlanta would still owe Cousins $27.5 million next season, which, coupled with his bonus, would make him the most expensive backup quarterback in league history.
Either way, the Falcons appear to be committed to Penix as their No. 1 QB going forward after he closed the regular season with three strong performances as the team’s starter, while Atlanta lost four of Cousins’ five final starts.
The team could either trade or release Cousins, who also battled injuries last season.