Pro Football Network Projects Atlanta's Comeback Player Of The Year

Which Atlanta Falcons could make a meaningful bounce-back in 2024?

Pro Football Network's Nick Faria recently attempted to name possible Comeback Player of the Year honorees for all 32 teams.

Faria tabbed free-agency signee Kirk Cousins as his most likely pick for the Falcons.

The veteran quarterback signed a four-year, $180 million deal this offseason following six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. He suffered a torn achilles on Oct. 29.

"Lost for the season early on in Minnesota last year, Cousins enters his first season in Atlanta with plenty to prove. Additionally, plenty of people are interested in the reason for the organization drafting a quarterback with the eighth overall pick." -- Faria

Jun 3, 2024; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) shown in action on the field during Falcons OTA at the Falcons Training facility. Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Faria's mention of the Falcons selecting Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick is interesting. Perhaps he is insinuating that Cousins will have even more motivation with his successor waiting in the wings.

Cousins, 35, has the ability to be the missing piece that has kept Atlanta's offense back in years following the departure of Matt Ryan. Though that rests on his recovery from a serious injury.

All things considered, Cousins has drawn praise form his performance in OTAs. It seems like that recovery is on track for him to hold the keys in his first season in Atlanta.