Amid a challenging first season with the Atlanta Falcons, Kirk Cousins remains the team’s starting quarterback, according to recent reports.

Despite his current struggles, the organization is standing by the veteran quarterback as they navigate a critical phase of the NFL season.

A Season of Struggles for Cousins

Cousins’ debut campaign in Atlanta has been far from ideal.

Over his last three starts, he has failed to throw a single touchdown pass, marking the longest drought of his 13-year career.

This slump has also seen him throw six interceptions, a stark contrast to his more disciplined performance earlier in the season, when he only had seven interceptions in nine games.

Adding to his woes, the 36-year-old made an unwelcome record, becoming the first player since Brett Favre in 2005 to record over 100 pass attempts, zero touchdowns, at least six interceptions, and one pick-six in a three-game span.

The Team’s Vote of Confidence

Despite his poor form, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reports that Cousins’ starting position is not under threat.

The Falcons remain confident in his ability to rebound, with Rapoport stating, “They do believe he will bounce back, they believe he’ll be resilient. They want to rally around Cousins.”

This show of faith suggests the team sees Cousins as a key leader, even in tough times, as they continue to compete for the NFC South title.

A Critical Matchup Ahead

Cousins will return to familiar territory this Sunday as the Falcons face the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium.

This game is pivotal for Atlanta, which is aiming to break a three-game losing streak and secure a 7-6 record to maintain their top spot in the NFC South standings.

Following the Vikings matchup, the Falcons have a relatively favorable schedule, facing teams like the Las Vegas Raiders, New York Giants, and Carolina Panthers—all contenders for next year’s No. 1 draft pick.

Rookie Quarterback Waiting in the Wings

If Cousins’ struggles persist, rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. could become a more attractive option for Atlanta.

The No. 8 overall pick has seen limited action this season, appearing only in lopsided losses to the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks, where he completed three of five passes for 38 yards.

Rapoport emphasized that the team still views Penix as the quarterback of the future.

“Michael Penix has really impressed. [The Falcons] drafted him to be the quarterback of the future. That is just not now, and they do not believe this should be a discussion.”

What Lies Ahead?

As Atlanta fights to stay atop the NFC South, Cousins will need to rediscover his form to keep the Falcons on track.

While the team is optimistic about his resilience, the looming presence of a promising rookie like Penix adds an extra layer of intrigue to Atlanta’s quarterback situation.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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