The Atlanta Falcons have garnered significant praise for signing quarterback Kirk Cousins, with some believing it has the chance to be the most impactful move of the NFL offseason.
“Falcons signing QB Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million deal,” NFL analyst Aaron Schatz writes for ESPN, naming Cousins’ signing the biggest move made so far. “Quarterback is the most important position in the game, so additions at that position are going to move the needle a lot more than additions at other positions. Cousins is a major upgrade over Desmond Ridder. He doesn’t make the Falcons Super Bowl contenders but does make them division favorites, so Falcons fans will have a reason for optimism over the next couple of seasons.”
How Kirk Cousins Upgrades Atlanta Falcons’ offense
Prior to Cousins’ arrival, the Falcons built an explosive collection of skill players, but lacked a consistent starting quarterback capable of maximizing their potential.
Former first-round wide receiver Drake London produced 1,771 receiving yards and caught six touchdowns through his first two seasons with Ridder and Marcus Mariota at quarterback.
Meanwhile, Bijan Robinson never quite shifted into gear as a rookie, particularly given former head coach and offensive play-caller Arthur Smith’s perplexing system.
In Kirk Cousins, the Atlanta Falcons now have a veteran quarterback who consistently puts up big numbers. Through his first 12 seasons, Cousins is a career 66.9 percent passer with 39.471 yards and 270 touchdowns to 110 interceptions.
The Falcons are betting big that Cousins will lift the franchise back into consistent postseason contention, and then some.
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