Ever since the Atlanta Falcons traded away quarterback Matt Ryan to the Indianapolis Colts, they have been on the hunt for a suitable replacement. From failed pursuits of Deshaun Watson to disappointing performances from Marcus Mariota and Desmond Ridder, the Falcons found themselves in a perpetual search for a franchise quarterback.
The Rise and Fall of Quarterback Prospects
The 2022 draft class of quarterbacks, which included Desmond Ridder, Kenny Pickett, and Sam Howell, all failed to live up to expectations, with most of them being traded or relegated to backup roles. Even highly-touted prospects like Malik Willis and Matt Corral struggled to secure starting positions in the league. The unexpected success story came from the last pick of the draft, Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers.
After a series of disappointments and underwhelming performances, the Atlanta Falcons pinned their hopes on Kirk Cousins. Cousins, who became available in free agency, was seen as the answer to the Falcons’ quarterback conundrum. His arrival marked a pivotal moment for the team, signaling a potential transformation in their offensive strategy.
The Influence of Sean McVay’s System
With the hiring of new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, who previously worked under Sean McVay with the Los Angeles Rams, the Falcons are expected to adopt a similar offensive approach. McVay’s emphasis on 11 personnel (three receivers, a running back, and a tight end) is likely to be replicated in Atlanta, providing Cousins with a familiar system to operate within.
With Cousins’ signing, the Falcons immediately upgraded their quarterback position with a more accurate and experienced player. Cousins’ track record of success in Minnesota, coupled with his ability to work with high-level talent, bodes well for his transition to Atlanta. His familiarity with players like Justin Jefferson and Dalvin Cook will be invaluable as he adjusts to the Falcons’ roster.
In Kirk Cousins, the Atlanta Falcons have found a quarterback who can bring stability and success to their offense. With a proven track record of Pro Bowl appearances and consistent performance, Cousins offers the Falcons a level of reliability and leadership that has been lacking since the departure of Matt Ryan. As the Falcons embark on a new era with Cousins at the helm, there is renewed hope for a brighter future.
The addition of Kirk Cousins represents a significant turning point for the Atlanta Falcons, who have been plagued by uncertainty at the quarterback position in recent years. With Cousins’ arrival, the Falcons are poised to revitalize their offense and compete at a higher level in the league. As they look ahead to the upcoming season, the Falcons can finally breathe a sigh of relief knowing that they have found their answer at quarterback in Kirk Cousins.
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