The adjusted deal gives the Falcons salary-cap flexibility and also sets up a decision to be made about Cousins’ future in Atlanta by the third day of the 2026 NFL league year on March 13.
Per ESPN, a guarantee of $67.9 million for the 2027 season vests on March 13. It is unlikely that the Falcons or another NFL team would acquire Cousins prior to that date, and the veteran has a no-trade clause in his contract. Cousins turns 38 on Aug. 19.
ESPN also reported that the modified deal reduces his 2026 base salary from a non-guaranteed $35 million to just $2.1 million. The difference of $32.9 million matches the increase of his 2027 salary.
Cousins still has a guaranteed $10 million roster bonus for 2026.
Atlanta signed Cousins to a contract with $100 million guaranteed before the 2024 season, then selected Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in that year’s draft.
Penix, 25, required season-ending surgery to repair a partially torn ACL in his left knee, prompting the Falcons to start Cousins for the final seven games of the season.
A four-time Pro Bowl selection, Cousins completed 61.7% of his passes for 1,721 yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions in 10 games (eight starts).
