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Michael Penix Jr. might be the story in Atlanta, but Kirk Cousins is still the Falcons’ starter and the Pro Bowl quarterback’s new teammates have loved what they’ve seen so far.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Falcons offensive guard Chris Lindstrom spoke glowingly of Cousins, highlighting his professionalism and “remarkable” work ethic. Lindstrom also loved to see the “intensity” and “purpose” behind every rep Cousins takes in practice.
“It feels like he’s been here for years, in terms of interactions with guys,” Lindstrom said, via ProFootballTalk. “You hear stories about just how great of a professional he is and that reputation carries across the league. But then when you get here and watch the way the guy works, it’s remarkable.
“The way he interacts with us has been great. Can’t ask for anything more. You just see the way he approaches every single day — the intensity behind every single rep and the purpose behind it, it’s really cool.”
The Falcons gave Cousins a four-year, $180 million contract in March, no doubt with the expectation that he’ll continue playing at a high level well into his late 30s.
But the team’s decision to draft Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick in last week’s draft suggests that Cousins might not be in line for a second contract with the team.
If Cousins wants to prove that he’s both the present and the future in Atlanta, he needs to put up monster some numbers this year before Penix really gets going.