The quarterback situation for the Atlanta Falcons has become one of the biggest storylines of the offseason — and the 2026 season is still months away.
Despite having veteran Kirk Cousins and third-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr. on the roster, Atlanta could find itself in a difficult position at the game’s most important spot.
Cousins is widely predicted to be released by March 13, a move that would help soften the financial impact of the four-year, $180 million contract he signed two years ago. Penix, meanwhile, is recovering from surgery to repair a torn ACL he suffered in November.
That combination could leave the Falcons thin at quarterback, putting new head coach Kevin Stefanski, general manager Ian Cunningham and president of football Matt Ryan in a position where free agency becomes critical.
If Cousins is released, Atlanta will likely explore the veteran market unless it pursues a trade. One potential fit has already been suggested.
Falcons Listed As Fit For Former Giants Quarterback
Falcons Wire’s Matt Urben believes former New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson could make sense for Atlanta.
“Wilson’s best days may be long behind him, but he’s still serviceable as a bridge starter/quality backup,” Urben wrote. “Considering the Falcons are likely to roll with Michael Penix Jr. at quarterback in 2026, it would make sense to add an experienced veteran to replace Kirk Cousins. Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart said Wilson helped with his development last season in New York. Perhaps he could do the same for Penix in Atlanta, while giving the team starting-caliber QB if he has to miss any time.”
The idea may not generate overwhelming excitement among Falcons fans — it certainly didn’t with the Steelers or Giants fans.
Wilson’s tenure with the Denver Broncos following his 2022 trade from the Seattle Seahawks never matched expectations, going 11-19 as a starter. After being released by the Broncos following the 2023 season, he signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers and went 6-5 as a starter. He then joined the Giants last season but eventually lost the starting job to rookie Jaxson Dart.
Wilson appeared in six games with three starts in 2025, going 0-3 while throwing for 831 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions.
According to Spotrac, Wilson’s projected market value sits at one year and $5.7 million — a manageable figure for a short-term solution.
Michael Penix Jr. Believes He Can Play Week 1
Penix recently spoke with WSB-TV’s Zach Klein about his rehab progress and made it clear he intends to be ready for the season opener.
“I won’t get hit until Week 1,” Penix said.
Klein followed up: “You’ll be ready Week 1?”
“I’ll be ready,” Penix replied. “I’m going to do everything in my power to be ready.”
Penix was injured in Week 11 on Nov. 16 in a loss to the Carolina Panthers. Standard ACL recovery timelines range from nine to 12 months.
Even if Penix ultimately is ready for Week 1, the Falcons will need clarity well before then. Free agency begins long before training camp, meaning Atlanta may not have the luxury of waiting on sheer optimism alone.
That said, even if Wilson is signed, it doesn’t mean Penix will or won’t start.
Falcons Urged To Add 10-Time Pro Bowl, Super Bowl Champion as Michael Penix Jr. Insurance