In a surprising turn of events, the Atlanta Falcons selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr. as the eighth overall pick in the 2024 draft. This decision has left their current quarterback, Kirk Cousins, questioning his future with the team.

Cousins, who joined the Falcons just six weeks prior, expressed his dissatisfaction with the team's choice in a recent interview. He mentioned that if he had known about the team's plan to invest in a quarterback who would eventually replace him, he might have reconsidered signing with the Falcons.

During the interview, Cousins emphasized the importance of alignment between the owner, general manager, coach, and quarterback. However, the drafting of Penix has certainly raised questions regarding Cousins' position on the team.

The seasoned quarterback indicated that he might have preferred to stay with his previous team, the Minnesota Vikings, or explore other options had he been aware of the Falcons' intentions. At the very least, he would have sought greater assurances about his future with the team, requesting a more extended commitment.

As it stands now, Cousins faces the possibility of being traded after just one or two years or even being cut after two years. The Falcons could potentially trade him with the same salary cap consequences as a pre-June 1 trade in 2025, only if another team is willing to take on the remaining $25 million owed to him in September and December.

While the chances of such a scenario seem unlikely, unforeseen circumstances, such as a serious quarterback injury, could motivate another team to make an attractive offer to the Falcons. This could present Cousins with an opportunity to waive his no-trade clause and potentially become the starter elsewhere, without the constant pressure of a successor looming over him, as will be the case in Atlanta.

Cousins' concerns underline the significance of a team's drafting decisions and the impact they can have on veteran players. With the uncertainty surrounding his future in Atlanta, it remains to be seen how the situation will develop. The Falcons may need to address Cousins' anxieties and provide him with the reassurance he seeks if they aim to maintain a stable quarterback situation moving forward.