Will the Atlanta Falcons Contend for a Super Bowl with Kirk Cousins? Early 2024 NFL Outlook

Since Matt Ryan left in 2021, the Atlanta Falcons have desperately been looking for their next quarterback. Ryan started 222 games in Atlanta across 14 seasons from 2008 to 2021. However, the Falcons have failed to replace the former 2016 MVP. 

That was until they landed Kirk Cousins this offseason. Cousins will immediately take over as the team's QB1 and replace Desmond Ridder -- who struggled in 2023.

How much did Cousins sign for? Will the move make the Falcons Super Bowl contenders? Let's dive in and find out.

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Kirk Cousins Signing Details

The expectation all offseason was that Cousins was going to test the free-agent market after spending the past six years in Minnesota. When the tampering period officially opened, the Falcons were a potential suitor for the veteran quarterback.

Within the next couple of hours, the two sides officially agreed to a multiyear deal. The 35-year-old agreed to a four-year, $180 million contract to take over as the Falcons' QB1. The veteran also received a $50 million signing bonus and $100 million in guaranteed money.

Kirk Cousins said Kyle Pitts had been recruiting him to the Falcons for the last couple of weeks.

"It’s always fun to be wanted."

— Amna (@amna__subhan) March 14, 2024

The Vikings remained interested in re-signing Cousins this offseason, but Atlanta appeared to make the better long-term offer. Cousins, who is signed through the 2027-2028 season, will likely end his career with the Falcons.

Will the Atlanta Falcons Contend for a Super Bowl with Kirk Cousins?

The biggest question mark for the Falcons over the past two years has been the quarterback play. Marcus Mariota was the starter two years ago, and last year it was Ridder. Both those seasons saw the team finish with a 7-10 record. That should change in 2024 and beyond.

Cousins is a significant upgrade at quarterback on a team that already has talented players on offense. The Falcons have spent a top-10 overall pick on running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London, and tight end Kyle Pitts in the past three drafts. On top of that, Atlanta's offensive line is top six in the NFL. All that should help the veteran on his new team.

Falcons’ QB Kirk Cousins when asked about winning a Super Bowl in Atlanta:

“Winning is what it’s all about…that’s where the focus lies… you certainly believe there’s the pieces here that you can do that”

Also adds that he recruited WR Darnell Mooney to join him in Atlanta… pic.twitter.com/CAhrMeLNG6

— Not Bijan (@InBijanWeTrust) March 14, 2024

With the arrival of Cousins, the Falcons are immediately the favorite to win the NFC South. They should find themselves back in the playoffs for the first time since 2017. However, it might be tough to count on them to beat the 49ers or the Eagles in the postseason, both of whom have better talent on both sides of the ball. 

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