As the Falcons begin training camp, two of their most important players have received a clean bill of health. Head coach Raheem Morris announced on Thursday that quarterback Kirk Cousins and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett have been cleared to take part in training camp (h/t ESPN’s Marc Raimondi). 
The news comes as little surprise given the team’s recovery expectations for both players. Jarrett hoped to be back to 100% in time for the start of camp, and that has proven to be the case. The two-time Pro Bowler was limited to eight games last season due to an ACL tear suffered on the same day Cousins’ campaign was cut short by a torn Achilles.
The latter’s rehab has been a key storyline throughout the offseason as he prepares for his debut Atlanta campaign. Cousins said earlier this month he intended to be back at full strength no later than August 1, so today’s update is an encouraging sign. It has long been expected the Falcons would take a cautious approach with the 35-year-old’s practice workload as he continues to rehab, but he will have not share time with the starting offense this summer.
Morris said (via Josh Kendall of The Athletic) Cousins will receive all of Atlanta’s first-team reps during training camp. That will leave first-round rookie Michael Penix Jr. and incumbent Taylor Heinicke to split time with the team’s backups. Cousins has already been assured of the starting gig in spite of Penix’s draft status, leaving him free to focus on his transition to Atlanta at the start of his four-year, $160MM pact. Penix, meanwhile, will aim to lock down the QB2 role over the coming weeks.
The Falcons made a pair of draft investments along the defensive interior this spring, but Jarrett will remain a focal point upon his return to health in 2024. The 31-year-old has recorded multiple sacks seven times in his career, and two years remain on his current contract. He and Cousins will have a full training camp under their belts by the time the campaign starts.
Captain Kirk babyyyyy. Road to 10-7!!!
If they end up 10-7, I’m guessing the rookie gets snaps during the season then.
*preseason
ATL doesn’t have an easy schedule in 2024. Not many gimmies outside of playing CAR x2. 10-7 may be good enough to get them in.
I agree. The first four weeks will be a huge litmus test for us. three primetime games vs eagles Bucs and world champ chiefs and a season opener vs a healthy Steelers team
oh geez in the fantasy football world ‘Primetime Kirk’ games make you cringe….I didn’t realize we have 3 primetime games this season, lord help us lol
We actually have four! We play raiders on Monday night in December
I can’t believe Grady got cleared?! That’s awesome