Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris commended quarterback Kirk Cousins for demonstrating a strong offseason camp, highlighting his resilience in overcoming a challenging recovery period. Morris emphasized Cousins’ improved ability to execute progressions and extend plays outside the pocket, marking a significant advancement compared to last year’s performance.
According to Morris, Cousins has also excelled in communication with both coaching staff and teammates, which plays a crucial role in his overall impact on the field. Morris acknowledged the complicated nature of Cousins’ offseason, noting the quarterback’s professionalism despite considerations about seeking opportunities elsewhere.
“He’s been really good,”
Morris said, via PFT.
“You’re talking about going through progressions and actually throwing the ball wherever you need to throw it. Obviously, he has the ability to come out of the pocket a little bit better than this time last year, coming off a significant injury. That’s dramatically improved, like it improved throughout the season. … But, I really love where he’s at from a communication standpoint with Mike [Penix], from his coaches. I really love where he’s at from a communication standpoint with us, and it’s one of the things that you just can’t give him enough credit for. I knew, obviously, the swirling winds of the bad human of every person that comes out, he’s not that and those are the things that I was really confident in when I knew he can be here and be doing everything he needs to get done. Again, I don’t blame him for wanting to go somewhere else and try to start. It is what it is, that’s not his fault. I think it’s about the explanation of us being absolutely upfront and personal with him, and we’ve got the best results from him.”
This endorsement from Morris underscores Cousins’ role as a stabilizing veteran presence who brings both skill and maturity to the Falcons’ offense.
Veteran Experience Shapes Cousins’ Preparation and Preseason Role
Morris also indicated that he does not see a pressing need for Cousins to take part in preseason games, citing the quarterback’s extensive experience and knowledge of his own requirements to be game-ready. The coach stressed that earlier issues last season, such as turnovers, are manageable through current training methods without exposing Cousins to unnecessary early risks.
He described conversations with Cousins as distinct from those with younger players, emphasizing the respect and accountability that come with veteran leadership. Morris compared Cousins’ status alongside other seasoned players such as Aaron Rodgers and David Onyemata, noting the importance of mature dialogue in managing their workloads and expectations.
“Kirk Cousins’ problem last year, when we had to make the change, was turnovers. All things that I can evaluate within the steady confines of what we’re doing right now,”
Morris explained.
“So, if we feel like we want to get him out there, just to get him some work, and I’m going to definitely compromise with a guy that’s been playing the league for that long. That’s a guy that’s been playing the league for a lot of time. He knows the amount of work he requires. He knows exactly what he needs to be ready. And I’m definitely going to communicate with him, different than with Michael Penix, different than with anybody else on the football team when you’re talking about that kind of a vet. There are only a few other guys kind of like that, we’re talking about David [Onyemata]. We’re talking about Bradley Pinion. You’re talking about Aaron Rodgers. You’re talking about guys with significant experience that I can have that grown-man conversation with, and Kirk definitely fits that bill.”
Panthers’ Jalen Coker Makes Notable Splash in Preseason Action
While Kirk Cousins continues to build momentum with the Falcons, the Carolina Panthers saw promising contributions from wide receiver Jalen Coker in a recent preseason matchup against the Cleveland Browns. Coker recorded two catches for 17 yards, including a touchdown, despite the Panthers’ 30-10 defeat.
Panthers head coach Dave Canales praised Coker’s continued progress and assured that the receiver will remain on the field as long as he maintains this trajectory. Canales highlighted Coker’s ability to create separation and deliver in critical moments during the game.
“Hopefully, up to now, we’re gonna play the best guys, and the guys that we can count on, the guys that make plays, the guys that make the catch,”
Canales emphasized, via PanthersWire.
“And Jalen, he’s open in space. He plays strong to the ball. He had two really amazing plays and a go-ball where he went up over [JaTravis] Broughton and kinda took it off of his shoulder, finished on his feet and ran the ball into the end zone. He keeps showing us like that, he’s gonna be on the field playing. There’s no doubt about it.”
Panthers receiver Xavier Legette echoed these sentiments, recognizing Coker’s rising impact on the offensive unit.
“He been doin’ them things that he’s been doin,”
Legette said.
“He’s steppin’ up. He been doin’ that. He’s a very good player.”
Saints Face Injury Setbacks but Remain Focused on Recovery
In New Orleans, the Saints are managing a series of injuries affecting key players. Guard Trevor Penning is expected to miss several weeks due to a turf toe injury, with recovery anticipated to take between four and six weeks according to NFL insider Nick Underhill.
Head coach Kellen Moore provided updates on tight ends Foster Moreau and Taysom Hill, both continuing to rehab knee injuries and not yet cleared to return to full activity. Wide receiver Bub Means recently suffered an ankle injury against the Los Angeles Chargers and has been placed on season-ending injured reserve, limiting the team’s depth at the position.
Looking Ahead: Camp Progress and Team Dynamics Remain Essential
Kirk Cousins’ strong offseason camp signals that the Falcons are positioning themselves to maximize their quarterback’s veteran insight and recovering physical abilities heading into the regular season. Raheem Morris’ endorsement suggests that Cousins’ steady leadership might help address past challenges such as turnovers and extend the effectiveness of Atlanta’s offense.
Meanwhile, running developments with players like Jalen Coker could influence roster decisions across the league, as teams balance youth and experience. The injury concerns facing the Saints spotlight the ongoing hurdles teams face during the early parts of preparation while striving to maintain competitive rosters.
As the NFL preseason progresses, the performances and health of key veterans like Cousins will remain pivotal, with coaches navigating a delicate balance between readiness and caution to set the stage for a successful campaign.