With offseason programs commencing soon, NFL teams are gearing up for training activities, particularly those with new head coaches. Each team will begin with two weeks of meetings and conditioning before advancing to on-field work, which includes organized team activities (OTAs) and a mandatory minicamp. Teams with new coaches can hold a voluntary minicamp. Specific dates have been set for all 32 teams, highlighting their respective first days, OTAs, and minicamp schedules.

The Atlanta Falcons are prepared to part ways with quarterback Kirk Cousins, who they no longer expect to attend offseason voluntary workouts. While there were previous intentions to retain him as a backup following a demotion, the team is now open to trading him. However, the Cleveland Browns are not a potential landing spot for Cousins, as they are uninterested in taking on his substantial contract. Cousins has expressed a desire to be released, which aligns with the Falcons’ willingness to grant that request, especially given the complications arising from his no-trade clause.

Concerns linger about the complexities of Cousins' contract, which some executives view as "untradeable" unless he is willing to adjust his deal significantly. The situation has reportedly soured since the Falcons selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in the first round last offseason, leading to a rift between Cousins and the organization. If Cousins remains with Atlanta, it could be as the highest-paid backup in the NFL.

Kirk Cousins' high-profile presence in the Atlanta Falcons' quarterback room raises questions about team dynamics as Michael Penix Jr. steps into the starting role. Falcons owner Arthur Blank acknowledges Cousins' professional demeanor but hints at potential trade scenarios, especially with the Cleveland Browns. With a massive contract, Cousins represents both a significant investment and a safety net for the franchise. Despite a rocky previous season, Blank's faith in Cousins remains, suggesting he could be an essential asset, even as the team transitions to a new starter. The dilemma lies in balancing respect for Cousins' stature with the need for a viable backup plan in a league where quarterbacks often face injury risks.

The Atlanta Falcons are looking towards a transformative draft, potentially marking a departure from their trend of selecting offensive players in the first round. With the recent release of defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, they've turned their focus to bolstering their defensive line. ESPN's latest mock draft by Field Yates suggests that the Falcons might take a hard look at edge defenders and defensive tackles as they hold the 15th and 46th overall picks. Key prospects include Marshall's Mike Green, who had an impressive 17 sacks in 2024, and Toledo's Darius Alexander, anticipated to be taken in the second round. Alexander, a powerful tackle at 6'4" and 310 pounds, is viewed as a solid replacement for Jarrett and would significantly enhance the Falcons' interior pass rush.

The Falcons have already signed Leonard Floyd and re-signed Ta'Quon Graham, but the addition of a high-upside prospect like Alexander could be game-changing. With only five draft picks in total, each selection will be crucial for Atlanta as they build a more formidable defense for the upcoming season.