Over a month since Kirk Cousins joined the Atlanta Falcons, the franchise may face increased costs due to his acquisition.
The NFL is currently investigating the Falcons for allegedly engaging in illegal tampering with Cousins prior to the onset of free agency. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Falcons might soon receive a significant penalty.
Schefter reports that the NFL is poised to announce punishments for both the Falcons and the Philadelphia Eagles, who are accused of tampering with former New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley. The outcome of these investigations is expected to be disclosed this week.
“The investigation into the Falcons and Eagles regarding alleged tampering with then-free-agents Kirk Cousins and Saquon Barkley is nearing its conclusion, with sources anticipating that the forthcoming penalties, likely involving the forfeiture of draft picks, will be harsher for the Falcons,” Schefter noted.
He also referenced recent precedents, such as the Miami Dolphins losing a 2023 first-round pick and a 2024 third-round pick for tampering with Tom Brady and Sean Payton, and the Kansas City Chiefs forfeiting picks for tampering with Jeremy Maclin.
During the NFL’s legal tampering period, which allows limited communication with potential free agents, Cousins inadvertently hinted at premature discussions with Falcons staff during his introductory press conference.
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“Meeting and calling our head athletic trainer and our head of PR yesterday, I realized we have great people here. It’s exciting to be a part of this team,” Cousins mentioned, potentially revealing unauthorized communications.
The NFL initiated an investigation following these comments.
Similarly, the Eagles might have prematurely engaged with Barkley, as suggested by Penn State head coach James Franklin during the legal tampering period. He hinted at early communications between Barkley and Eagles GM Howie Roseman.
Both teams have denied any misconduct. However, if Schefter’s reports hold, it appears the NFL might decide otherwise.
