ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons’ offseason overhaul, highlighted by the additions of coach Raheem Morris and quarterback Kirk Cousins, add intrigue to the team’s NFL draft plans.
By signing Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract with $100 million guaranteed, the Falcons appear to have no need to join the competition for the top quarterbacks in the draft with their No. 8 overall pick. Desmond Ridder, who opened last season as the starter, was traded to Arizona for wide receiver Rondale Moore following the Cousins signing.
Taylor Heinicke, who shared the job with Ridder last season, returns as the probable backup.
Is there still a need for another quarterback? Cousins will be 36 when the 2024 season opens, and he is returning from a torn right Achilles tendon that ended his 2023 season after eight games.
While it’s possible the team could add another quarterback after the first round, the Falcons could focus on defense at the top of the draft. Atlanta may address a pressing need by looking for an edge rusher such as Alabama’s Dallas Turner in the first round.
Deion Sanders' sons Shilo and Shedeur take on some recruiting duties for Colorado
Nikki Haley beats Donald Trump in Washington DC for first primary victory
The bodies of 4 women have been found in a migrant
New York hush money case: Judge declines to delay trial after Trump complains of pretrial publicity
Deion Sanders' sons Shilo and Shedeur take on some recruiting duties for Colorado
California man sentenced to 40 years to life for fatal freeway shooting of 6
A Toronto police officer was stabbed and a suspect shot. Both hospitalized in stable condition
Trump to host rally on Biden's home turf in northeast Pennsylvania
Kenya’s military chief dies in a helicopter crash
US and Philippines step up strategic partnership as China threats loom in South China Sea
Katie Price reveals her plans to REDUCE her surgically enhanced assets
Some fear University of Michigan proposed policy on protests could quell free speech efforts