Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot recently answered questions about the team’s primary priority this offseason without holding anything.
Yes, Steve, we will not close any doors. Regarding the quarterback position, Terry Fontenot said Steve Wyche, “You’re right, that’s the top priority for us this offseason.” “We will not obstruct trades, free agency, or the draft in any way. We’ll make sure to approach it with an open mind and persevere until the issue is resolved.
Arthur Blank, the owner of the Falcons, expressed a similar opinion.
“Everyone, including our fans, you, and everyone else in the NFL, can clearly see that we need to figure out how we’re going to improve in 2024 and going forward, through trades, free agency, the draft, or whatever other means possible,” Blank stated.
Raheem Morris won’t be far behind Terry Fontenot in his search for a new position if the Falcons don’t improve the quarterback position. The good news is that upgrading from Taylor Heinicke and Desmond Ridder, two of the worst quarterbacks in the NFL from the previous season, shouldn’t be too difficult.
The more important question is how the Falcons upgrade. Without a question, the draft is the best option. Rookie quarterbacks are very favorable, but when the Falcons have the #8 pick in the draft, there may not be a quarterback available who is ready to start right away.
As Alex has stated on multiple occasions, the Falcons would be better off taking a second look at quarterbacks. selecting a man to follow in the footsteps of a veteran, and Kirk Cousins is one of the best veterans in the game.
When Cousins suffered an Achilles injury last year, he was having the best game of his career. Though most still believe he will get a two- to three-year contract worth $40 million AAV, it will be interesting to see how it impacts his market. To make a transaction like that work, the Falcons would have to reallocate some cash, which would limit their options. But I don’t think there’s a better alternative than Kirk Cousins if you want to compete next year.
“I think it’s the Vikings or Falcons for Kirk Cousins,” NFL source Ari Meirov said in response to a question regarding the upcoming free agency of Cousins.
Cousins’ family’s connection to Atlanta and other absurdities have been floated as possible reasons why he would sign with the Falcons.
However, the true reason he might start for the Falcons in the upcoming season is that they are in dire need of a quarterback, have an owner who is eager to win, have the cap flexibility to sign him, and he fits in well with Zac Robinson’s playbook.
The Vikings might have to choose between Justin Jefferson and Kirk Cousins’ salary. If that’s the case, the Falcons should prioritize having Jefferson on staff in order to provide themselves the best chance to sign Cousins in free agency.
