The Atlanta Falcons’ head coach Raheem Morris provided an optimistic update on quarterback Kirk Cousins’ recovery during a recent media session. “Kirk is every day improving,” Morris shared, highlighting the positive trajectory Cousins is on as part of the team’s offseason program. This news comes as a relief for Falcons fans eager to see their new acquisition back in top form.
Atlanta Falcons Make Bold Move
Kirk Cousins, formerly with the Minnesota Vikings, suffered a devastating torn Achilles on October 29. This setback did not deter the Falcons from signing him to a lucrative four-year, $180 million contract in March, which includes $100 million guaranteed.
Despite this significant investment, Atlanta made headlines by selecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in this year’s draft, leading to speculation about Cousins’ health and future with the team.
They would’ve dragged Kirk Cousins for this throw pic.twitter.com/F9ZYVuXukN
— Jack Caporuscio (@Caporuscio_Jack) May 11, 2024
Morris’ comments underscored the team’s confidence in Cousins’ ongoing recovery. “We’re kinda right at the point where he’s doing everything that we can do at this point in phase two,” Morris explained. “He’s been doing all those things, he’s been throwing, he’s been out there pretty much full-go. Now, we got him in a limited basis, obviously ’cause he’s still in his rehab and his treatment and all those types of things.”
Addressing the Speculation
The decision to draft Penix sparked rumors about potential concerns over Cousins’ recovery timeline. Mike Sando of The Athletic mentioned that an unnamed NFL executive speculated, “Something happened in Kirk’s rehab between when he signed and draft day that made them feel like, ‘Oh my God, we might not have him for more than a year.'” However, as of early May, there have been no indications of any setbacks in Cousins’ recovery.
Kirk Cousins Fully Engaged in Offseason Activities
Morris reassured the media that Cousins is actively participating in the offseason activities, though the nature of these programs naturally limits physical contact.
“Most of the stuff is jog-through, as you guys know in the offseason programs now,” Morris elaborated. “So, he’s full-go in those types of things. …It’s not like training camp where I’m worried about people being around his feet, because the pace is so [much] slower that we feel really good about where he’s at right now.”
As the Falcons approach their regular-season opener in September, Cousins is expected to be the starting quarterback. However, with Michael Penix Jr. in the mix, Cousins’ performance in the upcoming training camp will be under scrutiny. His ability to demonstrate full recovery and readiness will be crucial in solidifying his position and future with the Falcons.
A Hopeful Outlook on Kirk Cousins’ Rehabiliation
Falcons fans have reasons to be optimistic with the promising reports on Cousins’ rehabilitation. The blend of seasoned experience from Cousins and fresh talent from Penix could potentially offer a dynamic quarterback duo for Atlanta. As training camp looms, all eyes will be on Cousins to see if he can indeed return to his pre-injury form and lead the Falcons to a successful season.
