Kirk Cousins has established himself as the primary backup quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons this offseason, backing up starter Michael Penix Jr. His impressive play during practices and preseason work has drawn positive attention from teammates and coaches alike. Falcons linebacker Kaden Elliss expressed admiration for Cousins’ skill and poise while leading the second-team offense.
It’s like, dude, he’s so good. He’s really good. He’s a special player and just his processing, his accuracy and just his ability to switch it up, he’s playing a game out there. We’re not just getting practice reps, you know what I mean? It’s not like the guy that’s a second-[teamer], or a rookie that’s just trying to remember what his plays are.
— Kaden Elliss, Falcons Linebacker
Coaching Staff Praise Cousins’ Professionalism and Leadership
Pass game coordinator T.J. Yates highlighted Cousins’ commitment and professionalism throughout the offseason, noting how much he contributes to the quarterback room beyond just preparing himself to play.
It’s never going to be the same as it was, but it’s different in a different way,
Yates said.
But I think it’s better just because Kirk has been an absolute pro in every part of the process so far in how much he helps Mike and helps all the other quarterbacks in the room and at the same time getting himself prepared to go out there and perform. It is not an easy task for him to do and it’s foreign to him, but he’s handling everything like a pro and we’re lucky to have him in the room.
— T.J. Yates, Falcons Passing Game Coordinator
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris addressed concerns following Cousins’ earlier trade request, emphasizing that the quarterback has been a non-disruptive, positive presence within the team.
He’s not that,
Morris remarked.
And those are the things that I was really confident in when I knew he can be here and do whatever needs to get done. And again, I don’t blame him for wanting to go somewhere else and try to start. I [would] too. It is what it is. That’s not his fault. I think it’s about the explanation of us being absolutely up-front and personal with him, and we’ve got the best results with him.
— Raheem Morris, Falcons Head Coach
Context from Panthers and Other NFL Teams Reflects Young Talent Development
While the Falcons benefit from the veteran presence of Kirk Cousins, other <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL teams such as the Carolina Panthers focus on nurturing youth within their squads. Charlotte Observer reporter Mike Kaye highlighted the Panthers’ efforts to develop younger linebackers like Trevin Wallace and Bam Martin–Scott over acquiring veteran players at that position. Panthers coach Dave Canales recognized marked improvements from players like second-round linebacker Nic Scourton, despite his continued absence from preseason games.
Key Panthers offensive players like rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan have shown gradual progress in training camp after initial slow starts. Meanwhile, injury updates around the league include concerns for players like Carolina quarterback Andy Dalton, sidelined with a muscle strain, and Tampa Bay’s cornerback Christian Izien, who might miss time due to an oblique injury.
Significance of Cousins’ Role for Falcons’ Season Outlook
Kirk Cousins’ impressive offseason efforts underscore his importance to the Falcons as a reliable backup poised to step in if necessary. His readiness, coupled with his leadership in the quarterback room, brings stability to a team aiming for consistency behind its starter. Cousins’ professionalism also sets a positive tone for other players on the roster who look up to seasoned veterans.
With the Falcons preparing for the season, Cousins’ continued performance during practices and potential preseason appearances will be crucial in determining his impact during the regular season. His ability to adapt quickly to the Falcons’ system and maintain a high level of play could influence the depth and competitiveness of Atlanta’s offense as the year progresses.