Atlanta has competed in the NFC South race throughout the season, but Cousins struggled in the second half. The 36-year-old threw just one touchdown compared to nine interceptions over a five-game stretch prior to being benched, and the Falcons went 1-4 in those games.

The Atlanta Falcons shelved quarterback Kirk Cousins ahead of their Week 15 matchup with the New York Giants, the first time in years Cousins was a QB2 while healthy. And things only got worse from there.

Linebacker JD Bertrand, a fifth-round pick, has played 131 snaps. Defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro, a second-round pick, has played 104. Defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus, a fourth-round pick, has played 19 and was inactive for the 12th time on Sunday.