Heading into Week 1 of the 2025 season, the Atlanta Falcons had intended to make the playoffs. But fast forward 13 weeks, and they’d be picking in the top 10 of the 2026 NFL Draft if the season ended today. They’re sitting at 4–8, Michael Penix Jr . is done for the year, and Kirk Cousins has stepped in, but still couldn’t avoid another tight loss, this time to the New York Jets in Week 13.

However, when he was asked how he keeps the locker room together during a season this turbulent, the veteran quarterback made it clear the group hasn’t cracked. Instead, the players are still upbeat, motivated, and locked in.

“I do think that guys in general are positive people,” Cousins said. “They like football. They want to be here. They enjoy making plays, having opportunities. So, that

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