NFL picks draft, fines Falcons for tampering with Kirk Cousins ​​and 2 other players

ATLANTA — The NFL announced its sanction for the Atlanta Falcons for tampering featuring former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins ​​​​and two other players.

The league will take a fifth-round pick in next year’s draft from Atlanta, as well as fine the team $250,000 and fine general manager Terry Fontenot $50,000, said NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The team also tampered with wide receiver Darnell Mooney and tight end Charlie Woerner, according to Pelissero.

Tampering refers to making contact with a potential signee outside of league-sanctioned windows. Cousins ​​Agent announced his deal with the Falcons about two and a half hours after the NFL free agent negotiating window opened in March.

During the trading window, players and their agents can speak to teams, but are prohibited from visiting teams. During his introductory press conference with Atlanta, Cousins ​​made a slip of the tongue that may have made league officials’ ears prick up.

“You look around and you think, ‘Boy, there are some great people here,’” Cousins ​​said. “And it’s not just about the football team. I mean, I look at the support staff. Meeting – call, yesterday, call from our head athletic trainer, discussion with our public relations person, I tell me: ‘We have good people.’ here.'”

The NFL Network reported that Cousins’ deal with the Falcons is for four years and $180 million, although only $100 million is guaranteed.

The cousins ​​played six seasons with the Vikings, making the playoffs twice and winning one playoff game. The Vikings signed a former first-round pick Sam Darnold and took JJ McCarthy 10th overall in April’s draft to replace Cousins.

Note: The video above was originally released on March 11, 2024.