The Falcons are preparing for the final stretch of the season during the bye week, and it seems Desmond Ridder will likely be the starting quarterback against the Saints in Week 12 and for the remainder of the season. Despite this, there’s a belief that Ridder’s performance in the coming games should not determine the team’s long-term quarterback solution. The article argues that settling for a quarterback who is merely ‘good enough’ limits the team’s potential.
The piece emphasizes the need for a special quarterback who can excel even when things are not going well. While acknowledging that players like Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes are rare, it suggests that the Falcons should actively seek an upgrade at the quarterback position in the upcoming offseason. The options mentioned include mortgaging first-round picks for prospects like Drake Maye or Caleb Williams, trading for an established veteran, or signing a free agent.
In terms of free agency, the article points out that Kirk Cousins is expected to be a top quarterback available. Despite the complication of Cousins tearing his Achilles, he had a strong performance before the injury, completing nearly 70% of his throws and throwing 18 touchdown passes to five interceptions. The article suggests that Cousins could be a seamless fit in Arthur Smith’s offensive system, especially with play-action elements.
The possibility of Cousins landing in Atlanta is supported by insights from sources around the league, with Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reporting that many consider Atlanta a sensible spot for Cousins. Despite the injury, Cousins is set to hit the open market, and the article speculates that he might command a contract similar to Derek Carr’s ($37.5 million AAV). Fowler predicts that Cousins will indeed be playing for the Falcons in 2024.
The author expresses a preference for any quarterback other than Desmond Ridder for the Falcons in the next season. Health permitting, the article expresses a desire to see Kirk Cousins, who was performing at a top-10 level before his injury, in a Falcons uniform.
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