The Atlanta Falcons have been penalized by the NFL with the loss of a 2025 fifth-round draft pick and a $250,000 fine for breaching the league’s anti-tampering policy.
The NFL identified “logistical violations” in the Falcons’ signings of quarterback Kirk Cousins, wide receiver Darnell Mooney, and tight end Charlie Woerner.
The league clarified that while teams can negotiate with the certified agents of unrestricted free agents during a specific two-day period, direct contact between the player and any club representative is prohibited. This includes discussions about travel or logistics, which the Falcons admitted occurred with these players.
Alongside the draft pick and team fine, Falcons GM Terry Fontenot was fined $50,000.
The Falcons stated, “We are pleased this review is complete. We cooperated fully and appreciate the league’s thoroughness. We will review our processes for improvements.”
Cousins, who signed a four-year, $180 million deal with Atlanta on March 11, mentioned in his introductory press conference that he had communicated with the Falcons’ head trainer before the official start of the league year.
Teams are restricted from directly contacting players during the initial 52-hour free agent negotiation period and must communicate through agents instead. Cousins’ agent is Mike McCartney.