The Atlanta Falcons saw the absence of two key players, quarterback Kirk Cousins and tight end Kyle Pitts, when they began their OTAs on Tuesday. While attendance at these sessions is optional, the situations involving these players raise several intriguing points.
Cousins, who signed a substantial four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons just over a year ago, is reportedly waiting for a trade. Despite his recent extension, the rise of Michael Penix Jr. last season has led Atlanta to prioritize the younger quarterback, leaving Cousins in a potentially backup role which he is unlikely to accept. The real question is who might be willing to take on Cousins, given his high guaranteed salary of $37.5 million and the Falcons’ demand for a significant financial commitment—something no team has met so far. Possible destinations include the Pittsburgh Steelers, who may be looking beyond Aaron Rodgers, though other logical fits like the New Orleans Saints or Cleveland Browns have complications.
Regarding Pitts, he is entering the final year of his rookie deal with a fifth-year option paying nearly $11 million. His absence from the Wednesday OTA sparked speculation about contract issues, but reports clarify that he is dealing with foot problems and not contract disputes. Pitts, once a highly promising draft pick, has seen a decline in his production this season, partly due to changes under the new offensive coordinator. Despite his strong start with over 1,000 receiving yards in his rookie season, this year’s numbers have dipped, highlighting a critical point in his career as he approaches free agency.
Fan Take: This developing storyline is significant for NFL fans because it underscores the business realities of professional football, where high-profile players can quickly find themselves in uncertain situations. The Falcons’ handling of Cousins and Pitts could signal big changes not just for Atlanta but for the broader quarterback and tight end markets, influencing team strategies across the league.
