Kirk Cousins has a single playoff victory in his long career.
Even so, the Atlanta Falcons are betting at least $100 million that he’s the quarterback who can lead this star-crossed franchise to its first Super Bowl championship.
Cousins was introduced Wednesday evening by the Falcons, who made a huge financial commitment to land one of the biggest prizes of NFL free agency.
“When the owner, general manager, head coach and quarterback are on the same page, that’s when you really have a chance to go win a Super Bowl,” Cousins said at the team’s suburban training facility.
“As I look at the Atlanta Falcons, I believe strongly that the owner, head coach, general manager and quarterback can all be on the same page. That’s exciting for me and why I’m thrilled to be here.”
The 35-year-old Cousins knows there’s one big knock hanging over him: an inability to win the big game. Of his four career playoff starts, his only victory came in the wild-card round during the 2019 season.
“Winning is what it’s all about,” Cousins said. “I just want to win.”
The Falcons believe Cousins is a perfect fit for their offense, which seems to have plenty of weapons but was plagued by inconsistent play at the most prominent position on the field the last two years.
Marcus Mariota was a stopgap in 2022 after the team cut ties with longtime starter Matt Ryan, and Desmond Ridder failed to hold the job he was handed last season.
Atlanta hasn’t had a winning season or made the playoffs since 2017, so going with Cousins — who is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon — appears to be the best hope of turning things around quickly.
The Falcons are no longer in rebuilding mode. They believe it’s time to make a run at a championship, which has eluded this franchise since it entered the NFL in 1966.
As for his personal legacy, Cousins knows a big piece is missing.
“Quarterbacks will always be evaluated not just from September to December, but for January and February,” he said. “That’s where you want to…
Source link : https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/kirk-cousins-looks-to-build-postseason-legacy-with-falcons-i-just-want-to-win
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Publish date : 2024-03-14 01:56:09
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