Will Kirk Cousins play in Falcons' preseason games? HC Raheem Morris addresses QB situation

No, Kirk Cousins will not play in the Atlanta Falcons' preseason games in 2024. According to NFL columnist Jarrett Ball, Cousins feels upbeat about his progress on his torn Achilles and wants to play in the preseason. But Falcons head coach Raheem Morris has shut that idea down. Hence, Cousins will continue his recovery away from the Gridiron, instead aiming to play in Week 1 versus the Steelers.

The Falcons signed Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract in the offseason. The perennial Pro Bowler joined the Falcons after spending six years with the Minnesota Vikings. However, Cousins joined the Falcons while recovering from an Achilles injury that ruled him out last season.

Falcons' preseason schedule

The Atlanta Falcons have three preseason games before the 2024 NFL season. The franchise has away matchups against the Miami Dolphins and Baltimore Ravens and a home fixture against the Jacksonville Jaguars on their preseason schedule.

All three games come up against teams that have appeared in the NFL playoffs in the past two seasons, serving as litmus tests ahead of the 2024 regular season.

Here's a look at the preseason details:

Week 1 at Miami Dolphins

• Date: Friday, August 9, 2024
• Time: 7:00 p.m. ET

Week 2 at Baltimore Ravens

• Date: Saturday, August 17, 2024
• Time: Noon ET

Week 3 versus Jacksonville Jaguars

• Date: Friday, August 23, 2024
• Time: 7:00 p.m. ET

Who will start in place of Kirk Cousins in the preseason?

His three backups will likely split time with Kirk Cousins, who was ruled out of preseason action.

The first option to start will be the eighth overall 2024 draft pick, Michael Penix Jr. He'll likely get a healthy number of reps this preseason.

There's also Taylor Heinicke, a reliable veteran with ample NFL experience who could be lined up to take some reps in the 2024 preseason.

Last but not least is John Paddock, a rookie quarterback who went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft. Paddock played for Ball State and Illinois at the collegiate level and will be poised to showcase his arm talent and potentially win a third-string quarterback roster spot.