The Falcons signed Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract this offseason in the hopes he was the missing piece that could thrust them back into the playoffs. But Atlanta was officially eliminated from postseason contention Sunday afternoon.

The Falcons drafted Washington standout Michael Penix Jr. in the first round, which was a surprise to Cousins. Penix, who was considered one of the more pro-ready quarterback prospects in the class, will make his first NFL start this Sunday against the New York Giants.

The Atlanta Falcons shelved quarterback Kirk Cousins ahead of their Week 15 matchup with the New York Giants, the first time in years Cousins was a QB2 while healthy. And things only got worse from there.

According to NFL Insider James Palmer, the Atlanta Falcons believe Kirk Cousins time in the NFL could be over.

Linebacker JD Bertrand, a fifth-round pick, has played 131 snaps. Defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro, a second-round pick, has played 104. Defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus, a fourth-round pick, has played 19 and was inactive for the 12th time on Sunday.

After signing a monster contract in the offseason, Kirk Cousins won't even last a full year with the Atlanta Falcons.

Atlanta Falcons coach Raheem Morris announced Tuesday night that the team decided to bench veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins and start rookie Michael Penix Jr. in his place Sunday against the New York Giants.

The Kirk Cousins fiasco for the Atlanta Falcons led to a $180 million decision, and the winner was Michael Penix Jr. and the Falcons. So far.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins has been a quality backup to rookie Michael Penix Jr., said head coach Raheem Morris.