Cousins confident despite benching: 'I didn't forget how to play QB'

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins still believes in himself despite his recent benching in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr.

"I didn't forget how to play quarterback," Cousins said, according to The Athletic's Amos Morale III and Josh Kendall. "Certainly, the turnovers were not what you want, but I didn't forget how to play."

However, he admitted to some poor decision-making that resulted in his demotion.

"Maybe you need less confidence to not try to force the ball into tight windows," Cousins said. "You have to make great decisions all the time. If you don't, you pay for it."

The Falcons announced the benching Tuesday. Coach Raheem Morris said Cousins' turnovers were the biggest factor in his decision to bench the 36-year-old, per ESPN's Marc Raimondi. Cousins has thrown just one touchdown and nine interceptions in his last five games, in which Atlanta has gone 1-4. He's recorded a league-leading 16 interceptions overall, which is also a career high.

"We brought Kirk in here with full expectations we could win a championship. ... We have been digging as much as we could dig in order to make things work," he said, per Raimondi.

Cousins said he called Penix after he learned of the benching to offer his full support. The veteran refused to elaborate on his future with the organization.

Cousins signed a four-year, $180-million contract with Atlanta in March. The Falcons then drafted Penix eighth overall in April, although they didn't tell Cousins about their intentions until they were on the clock.

Atlanta is currently 7-7 and second in the NFC South. Penix will make his first career start against the New York Giants on Sunday.