Kirk Cousins is done as the Atlanta Falcons' starting quarterback, benched in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. ahead of the team's Week 16 matchup with the New York Giants. That doesn't mean Cousins is done as a starter in the NFL,

In March, the Falcons signed Cousins to a 4-year, $180 million contract.Barnwell picked that contract as the biggest mistake for the Falcons. He also ranked it at No. 8 among the worst mistakes made in the league since 2020.

Kirk Cousins faces a career-defining moment as the Falcons hand the reins to rookie Michael Penix Jr. after a disappointing season. Instead of resentment, Cousins shows class and leadership, vowing to mentor the young quarterback.