Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris recently acknowledged a significant advancement in quarterback Kirk Cousins’ ability to maneuver outside the pocket compared to last season. Morris emphasized that this growth demonstrates Cousins’ adaptability and improved skill set, noting,
“Obviously, has the ability to come out of the pocket a little better than this time last year. That has dramatically improved. I really love where he’s at… I don’t blame him for wanting to go somewhere else to start.”
This recognition comes amid ongoing trade speculation surrounding Cousins.
Additional Updates on Falcons’ Player Health and Roster Status
Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. shared an optimistic update regarding wide receiver Darnell Mooney, who is expected to be ready for Week 1 despite a shoulder injury, although Penix remained cautiously uncertain. Meanwhile, defensive lineman Ta’Quon Graham is facing a calf injury sustained during practice and describes his recovery status as “probably week-to-week.” Similarly, undrafted cornerback Cobee Bryant is recovering from a hamstring injury and is also considered week-to-week, impacting the Falcons’ depth as the new season approaches.
Examining NFL Draft Strategy: Buccaneers’ Focus on Character and Work Ethic
Buccaneers General Manager Jason Licht outlined the team’s approach to evaluating draft prospects, emphasizing the importance of character and dedication to football. Licht described how players lacking passion for the sport or possessing problematic attitudes are removed from consideration.
“We put the players that are worthy of being drafted on the draft board like every team does, but then we just kind of take the a–holes and the douchebags off, and the guys that don’t love football and guys that have proven they don’t like it, that are difficult to deal with, and we just kind of mitigate our risk. We’re taking great players that are great humans,”
Licht explained.
Licht further stressed that talent alone is not sufficient for long-term success in the NFL, noting,
“The high draft picks who don’t make it are the ones who don’t work hard. They don’t listen to coaching. And they don’t do the little things they are supposed to do.”
Carolina Panthers’ Receiver Group Impresses with Depth and Versatility
Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Brad Idzik praised the team’s wide receiver corps for its strong depth and competitive nature. Idzik described the receiver room as exceptionally talented throughout, stating, “Oh, it’s really deep.” He commended how the group pushes each other and adjusts to multiple roles without a noticeable decline in performance from starters to backups.
Idzik singled out wide receiver Hunter Renfrow for his exceptional ability to get separation from defenders.
“He just gets open. He just knows how to get open,”
Idzik said.
“You might have bad leverage, he knows how to steal leverage. He’s got freaky lateral quickness. When he opens up, he’s like—big strides, powerful first four steps, which simulates, ‘I’m going full-tilt vertical.’”
Implications of Kirk Cousins’ Development for Falcons and Future Prospects
Kirk Cousins’ marked improvement in pocket play flexibility highlights both his personal growth as a quarterback and the Falcons’ evolving offensive strategy. Head coach Raheem Morris’ endorsement signals confidence in Cousins’ future contributions, despite trade rumors that suggest Cousins may seek a starting role elsewhere. As the Falcons manage ongoing player injuries and roster adjustments, Cousins’ enhanced mobility could play a crucial role in the team’s offensive dynamics this season.
Meanwhile, the focus on player character and work ethic by organizations like the Buccaneers underlines a broader trend in the NFL toward building teams not only on talent but also on professionalism and dedication. This philosophy aligns with the competitive environments seen in teams like the Panthers, where deep and versatile receiver groups maintain high standards across all players.