The Atlanta Falcons made headlines in the offseason with the signing of quarterback Kirk Cousins, but it came at a price higher than anticipated.
On Thursday, the NFL announced penalties for the Falcons due to violations of the league’s anti-tampering policy related to the signings of Cousins, wide receiver Darnell Mooney, and tight end Charlie Woerner. Atlanta will forfeit a 2025 fifth-round draft pick and face a $250,000 fine, with General Manager Terry Fontenot receiving an additional $50,000 fine.
According to the NFL statement, the Falcons engaged in prohibited direct contact with the players or their representatives regarding logistical matters, such as travel arrangements, during the negotiation period.
In a separate investigation, the NFL cleared the Philadelphia Eagles of tampering allegations in their signing of running back Saquon Barkley.
Cousins, a seasoned NFL veteran and former standout at Michigan State, spent six seasons with the Vikings before signing a lucrative four-year, $180 million deal ($100 million guaranteed) with the Falcons in March.
The Falcons responded in a statement, expressing cooperation with the league’s review and a commitment to improving their operational processes.
Despite investing heavily in Cousins, the Falcons surprised many by selecting Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick in April’s draft.
