Daniel Matthews
Updated on: October 8, 2024 8:39 am GMT
As the 2024 NFL season kicks off, Kirk Cousins is set to make his debut as the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons. After a tumultuous and injury-riddled period that saw him recovering from a torn Achilles, Cousins has come full circle to lead a team looking for stability at the quarterback position—a role that has been sorely lacking since the departure of Matt Ryan.
With head coach Raheem Morris steering the ship in his first season, the optimism surrounding the Falcons is palpable. The team, having finished 7-10 for three consecutive seasons, has bolstered its roster significantly, making Cousins’ addition a focal point. His experience, consistency, and ability to thrive in structured offensive schemes make him well-suited to unlock the potential of Atlanta’s offensive talent, including rising stars like Drake London, Bijan Robinson, and Kyle Pitts.
Cousins’ track record in Minnesota showcased his prowess as a precise passer and a capable leader, attributes that the Falcons hope will translate into success on the field. Despite missing a significant portion of the previous season, Cousins’ numbers were impressive when healthy—ranking among the league leaders in passing yards and touchdowns, and demonstrating a keen ability to execute in-rhythm throws.
However, the path ahead is fraught with challenges. The Falcons’ early schedule features teams with winning records, and Cousins will need to quickly find rhythm with his new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, who shares a coaching lineage with the successful systems Cousins operated in Minnesota. With the pressure mounting, a strong start against a formidable Pittsburgh Steelers defense, led by T.J. Watt, will be crucial for establishing confidence and momentum.
As Cousins prepares to step onto the field at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, he recognizes the significance of this moment—not just for himself, but for the team and its fans who have warmly embraced him since his arrival. The sentiment resonates deeply with him, as he understands well the weight of expectations that come with the position. A successful season opener could not only reignite the Falcons’ playoff aspirations but also secure Cousins’ status as the quarterback they have long sought.
Right now, everyone is watching Cousins. He wants to show that the Falcons are starting a new chapter. This new chapter brings hope, stability, and the chance to make it to the playoffs again.
