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Falcons to Release QB Kirk Cousins
Veteran quarterback will hit free agency after Atlanta declines contract option
Feb. 25, 2026 at 2:34am
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The Atlanta Falcons have informed quarterback Kirk Cousins that they plan to release him next month when the free agency period opens, according to the team's general manager. Cousins, a veteran NFL quarterback, will now become an unrestricted free agent able to sign with any team.
Why it matters
Cousins' release marks the end of his time with the Falcons and opens up the possibility of him joining a new team for the 2026 season. As an experienced starting quarterback, Cousins' availability on the free agent market could be of interest to several NFL teams looking to upgrade their quarterback position.
The details
The Falcons' general manager stated that the team has decided to move on from Cousins and will release him when the new league year begins in March. Cousins had been under contract with Atlanta, but the team has opted not to pick up his option for the 2026 season.
- The Falcons informed Cousins of their plans to release him on February 25, 2026.
- Cousins will officially become a free agent when the new league year begins in March 2026.
The players
Kirk Cousins
A veteran NFL quarterback who has spent the past several seasons with the Atlanta Falcons.
Atlanta Falcons
The professional American football team based in Atlanta, Georgia that currently employs Kirk Cousins.
What they’re saying
“We have decided to move in a different direction at the quarterback position and will be releasing Kirk Cousins when the new league year begins.”
— Falcons General Manager
What’s next
Cousins will now be able to sign with any NFL team as an unrestricted free agent starting in March 2026.
The takeaway
Cousins' release by the Falcons opens up the possibility of him joining a new team for the 2026 season, providing an experienced starting quarterback option for teams in need of an upgrade at the position.
