Kirk Cousins and the defense. They will have to explore ways of getting rid of the veteran while supporting their franchise quarterback in Michael Penix Jr.

Kirk Cousins’ future hangs in the balance. Whilst rumors have floated around about his future, surrounding potential trades, the front office have downplayed notions of Cousins’ impending departure, insisting – somewhat curiously – that they would be happy for him to stick around on the team.

When the Atlanta Falcons benched Kirk Cousins for rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. late in December, the move signaled a shift toward the

The Falcons have a crucial decision to make on a potential Kirk Cousins trade, but they aren't in a rush to make a move.

After the Falcons benched a struggling Kirk Cousins, the expectation has been for a release to commence. Cousins does not look to have a route back to Atlanta’s starting job, especially after No. 8 overall pick Michael Penix Jr. showed promise in his three starts.

November, the Atlanta Falcons didn't anticipate having conversations about the future of quarterback Kirk Cousins-- but now, they have no choice. And the Falcons are locked in a world of complications.