Potential quarterback prospects pursued by the Atlanta Falcons as free agents in 2024

The Atlanta Falcons are in dire need of a quarterback, and not just any quarterback will suffice. They require a capable, preferably highly skilled starting quarterback after enduring several lackluster seasons without one. The method they employ to acquire this quarterback is of secondary importance compared to the necessity of securing one.

Should the Falcons opt to explore free agency rather than turning to the draft or the trade market, or perhaps in conjunction with those avenues, the available options are somewhat limited. There is one top-tier (albeit older) starter, one competent quarterback coming off a solid season, and approximately three players with a history of successful starting quarterback performances who may not have held a starting role recently, or who delivered mixed results in the previous year, or both.

However, it is essential to take the team seriously when they claim to be open to all possibilities, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding their ability and willingness to trade up in the draft at this point in time. Therefore, it is prudent to examine the free agent market, especially with one particular name garnering significant attention from Atlanta.

In previous years, listing free agent backups might have been considered, but it is anticipated that the team will either A) draft a potential long-term starter to sit behind a veteran or B) select Desmond Ridder as their backup. As such, this approach doesn’t seem necessary this year.

Now, turning to the list of potential free agent quarterbacks:

Kirk Cousins of the Minnesota Vikings stands out as the most notable name currently. He is the most established and accomplished passer poised to enter free agency, assuming he does become available, and he has been linked with the Falcons for some time now.

The reasons for this interest are quite evident. Cousins is renowned for his accuracy and prolific passing, consistently ranking among the league leaders in on-target pass percentage—an area where the Falcons have struggled in recent years. He possesses a strong arm, demonstrates excellent field vision, distributes the ball quickly to his receivers, and is known for his durability, with the exception of a regrettable Achilles injury last year. The Falcons, along with their new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, have emphasized the importance of accuracy and the ability to execute all necessary throws, qualities that Cousins has demonstrated throughout his career.