Overview
- At GM Ian Cunningham’s introduction, president Matt Ryan declined to name Michael Penix Jr. the 2026 starter, saying head coach Kevin Stefanski will make that call after roster evaluations.
- Michael Penix Jr. is rehabbing a torn left ACL suffered in November 2025, with an estimated recovery timeline of nine to 12 months.
- Kirk Cousins’ reworked contract would guarantee $67.9 million for 2027 if he remains on the roster March 13, making a release, renegotiation or retention decision likely by then.
- Atlanta enters the offseason with about $27.9 million in cap space and no 2026 first-round pick after last year’s trade, increasing the weight on Day 2 draft capital under Cunningham’s pick-valuing approach.
- With Kyle Pitts approaching free agency, ESPN’s mock draft links Vanderbilt tight end Eli Stowers to Atlanta at No. 48, and some media have speculated the team could explore veteran quarterback options, including Aaron Rodgers, if needed.