When Will Kirk Cousins Make Atlanta Falcons Debut?

New Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is on track to make his debut in Week 1 of the regular season, according to our panel of former head team physicians.

Cousins, who tore his right Achilles tendon in Week 8 with the Minnesota Vikings, has progressed to working on drop backs on a tennis court and will be able to ramp up his recovery in training camp with the Falcons.

He may not have 100% mobility in Week 1, but Cousins is not a quarterback who relies on escapability to make plays. He should be able to make every throw necessary for a pocket passer and our panel of docs have no medical downgrade for the 35 year old this season.

Dr. David Chao broke discussed his recovery progress below:

Cousins averaged 291.4 passing yards per game in 8 games last season with 18 touchdowns, 5 interceptions and a 69.5% completion rate.

Atlanta also agreed to a three-year, $39 million deal with former Bears wideout Darnell Mooney on Monday. Mooney figures to be the WR2 alongside Drake London with Kyle Pitts at tight end and Bijan Robinson at running back.

Kirk Cousins Injury History

Before tearing the Achilles tendon in his right lower leg last season, Cousins had played 15 or more games in 8 seasons dating back to his start with Washington.

Cousins missed just one game during his college career after suffering a right ankle sprain in October 2009.

The four-time Pro Bowler turns 36 in August. His deal with the Falcons is reportedly four years for $180 million with $100 million guaranteed.

The Falcons have a potential out with Taylor Heinicke this offseason, although he carries a $2 million dead cap hit. 

Desmond Ridder is under contract through 2025 with a dead cap hit of $540,168 this season.