FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. () — The big question headed into mandatory minicamp for the Atlanta Falcons is whether or not Kirk Cousins would show up. Atlanta’s 180-million backup quarterback was in attendance.

The Falcons once starting QB believes he still has a couple of years a starter left in the tank. He would like to be traded to a team who believes the same thing. As for the Falcons, they are content with being back up to the No. 8 overall draft pick of the 2024 draft Michael Pennix Jr.

Head coach Raheem Morris said he spoke to Cousins when he addressed the team before practice, but did not say he spoke with him individually. He added Cousins sat on the front row.

“Obviously,” Cousins said, you’d love to play, but I’m not going to dwell on things that aren’t reality. That’s not the situation I’m in. So it’s better spent to be focused on the situation I’m in and control what you can control. I think that’s the right mindset to have.”

Coach Morris said every player was in attendance on day one except one player who was excused for a personal reason.