After trading away longtime quarterback Matt Ryan, the Atlanta Falcons found themselves in a desperate search for a successor. The pursuit of Deshaun Watson and the signing of Marcus Mariota both ended in disappointment. The drafting of Desmond Ridder in a year with thin quarterback prospects did not yield the desired results either. It seemed like the Falcons were constantly struggling to find the right fit at quarterback, with several young quarterbacks failing to live up to expectations.
However, the arrival of Kirk Cousins in Atlanta brought new hope to the team. Cousins, a former Minnesota Vikings quarterback with a solid track record, was seen as the answer to the Falcons’ quarterback woes. His experience and success in previous seasons made him a promising addition to the team. The Falcons were optimistic that Cousins would bring stability and effectiveness to the quarterback position.
With the signing of Cousins, the Atlanta Falcons also underwent a significant change in their offensive philosophy. New coordinator Zac Robinson, a former coach with the Los Angeles Rams, was expected to implement a more pass-heavy offense. The Falcons planned to adopt the use of 11 personnel more frequently, a departure from their previous approach under Arthur Smith. Cousins’ previous success in a similar offensive scheme under Kevin O’Connell in Minnesota provided further confidence in the new direction the team was taking.
Cousins’ Impact on the Team
Cousins’ arrival in Atlanta not only brought a more accurate quarterback to the team but also a player with experience working with high-level talent. His previous connections with elite receivers and tight ends in Minnesota demonstrated his ability to elevate the play of those around him. In Atlanta, Cousins would have the opportunity to work with standout players like Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and running backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. His leadership and playmaking skills were expected to provide a much-needed boost to the Falcons’ offense.
While Matt Ryan had been a staple at quarterback for the Falcons for many years, his departure left a void that needed to be filled. Cousins, with his five Pro Bowl appearances and consistent performance throughout his career, was seen as a potential successor to Ryan. His track record of completing over 65% of his passes and delivering at least 20 touchdowns per season made him a reliable option for Atlanta. The Falcons hoped that Cousins could bring the same level of consistency, leadership, and success that Ryan had provided for the team.
With Kirk Cousins now leading the way for the Atlanta Falcons, the team was entering a new era filled with optimism and potential. The addition of Cousins, along with the changes in offensive strategy and the influx of young talent, signaled a fresh start for the team. As the Falcons looked ahead to the upcoming season, they were hopeful that Cousins could be the quarterback they had been searching for: a skilled, reliable leader who could guide the team to success on the field.