Anytime a hint of a quarterback injury happens in the next weeks, the Atlanta Falcons are going to be thrown into the rumor mill. This is a byproduct of the team's decision to keep Kirk Cousins while turning the page to Michael Penix Jr.
It was understandable when you consider the lack of market for a top-dollar contract. If Atlanta is going to be stuck paying Cousins, it makes sense to have the security of the experienced starter as the backup option. At least if Penix deals with an injury, you have the hope that the veteran can turn back the clock.
For Cousins, this has been an obvious source of frustration in what are the final years of his career. Losing a season sitting on the bench can't be easy, especially after signing a blockbuster deal with the Falcons that seemed to provide three years of security.
Regardless, this is the situation Cousins finds himself in and must be content waiting for the right opportunity. One that could've just presented itself with the news that New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields was pulled off the field with an ankle injury. If Fields is going to miss any meaningful time, the Jets could be a landing spot for Cousins.
Falcons QB Kirk Cousins Given Fresh Hope of Finding New Landing Spot
Jets QB Justin Fields just limped off the practice field with a trainer at his side.
— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) July 24, 2025
He was too far away to see what happened but he’s under a tent being evaluated right now. … The limp was a pretty significant one.
After limping off the field, Justin Fields was carted to the training facility, inviting speculation that this is an extremely serious situation. One that could open the door for Cousins to find a new team. If the Jets have any interest in attempting to contend in the 2025 season, Brady Cook or Tyrod Taylor aren't going to inspire much confidence. If Fields is out, Cousins gives you the ability to compete each week as long as the starter remains healthy.
It is now clear that attempting to play through injuries is what imploded Atlanta's season in 2024 and tanked the quarterback's value. Leaving room to wonder what the current ceiling is for the healthy Falcons backup. No question, it is a story to keep a close eye on as camp continues and teams attempt to get ready for the preseason.
Under new head coach Aaron Glenn, there are healthy expectations that the Jets can be a difficult team to play, even if there aren't legitimate playoff aspirations. Losing Fields could potentially change this and force a level of desperation that would allow the Falcons to revisit the idea of trading Cousins and giving the starter a fresh start.