JUST IN: Former Falcons QB sends strong message to Raheem Morris
Kirk Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons are currently stuck in a rough two-game losing streak. Defeats to the New Orleans Saints and Denver Broncos before their bye week have left them frustrated.
Even though Cousins has guided the Falcons to six wins and the top spot in the NFC South, former Falcons quarterback Kurt Benkert isn’t convinced that Cousins is the answer. He strongly believes the team can only make a playoff push if their rookie quarterback takes the reins.
Kurt Benkert believes Falcons have to start Michael Penix Jr.
We all expected that the Falcons would experience quarterback turmoil after Kirk Cousins was signed and Michael Penix Jr. was drafted. At the first hint of crisis, fans and the media would desert.
One player who isn’t convinced about Cousins is Kurt Benkert, who was a member of the Dirty Birds from 2018 to 2020.
If you agree with Benkert, here’s some bad news: Michael Penix Jr. won’t be starting unless there’s an injury or a meaningless late-season game.
The problem with this view is that Kirk Cousins does provide the best chance to win both now and in the future. Despite his overall poor record, he has consistently played well in the postseason. It’s also important to consider that his record should be viewed in context, given he’s playing with a completely new team.
While this may not be the main reason for Benkert’s opinion on Cousins, it’s worth noting that Benkert grew up and played for the Packers, who were long-time division rivals of Cousins’ teams. We all know how fan loyalty can shape opinions in the NFL.
The entire Falcons roster has struggled in recent weeks, and the blame shouldn’t fall solely on the quarterback. While Cousins hasn’t been exceptional in these last two games, neither has the offensive line or the defense.
So, don’t expect any drastic changes at quarterback under Raheem Morris.