The Falcons signed Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract this offseason in the hopes he was the missing piece that could thrust them back into the playoffs. But Atlanta was officially eliminated from postseason contention Sunday afternoon.

The Falcons drafted Washington standout Michael Penix Jr. in the first round, which was a surprise to Cousins. Penix, who was considered one of the more pro-ready quarterback prospects in the class, will make his first NFL start this Sunday against the New York Giants.

Linebacker JD Bertrand, a fifth-round pick, has played 131 snaps. Defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro, a second-round pick, has played 104. Defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus, a fourth-round pick, has played 19 and was inactive for the 12th time on Sunday.

According to NFL Insider James Palmer, the Atlanta Falcons believe Kirk Cousins time in the NFL could be over.

The Atlanta Falcons have officially been eliminated from the NFL playoff race following the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ win over the New Orleans Saints. The Falcons entered the final week of the 2024 season needing some help to get in but didn’t get it.

The Atlanta Falcons season came to a deflating end Sunday after a 44-38 overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers. Why it matters: The Falcons (8-9) missed the playoffs and finished with a losing record for the seventh straight season.