The NFL has imposed sanctions on the Atlanta Falcons for violating the league’s anti-tampering policy involving quarterback Kirk Cousins, receiver Darnell Mooney, and tight end Charlie Woerner, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
In addition to a $250,000 fine, Atlanta will forfeit their fifth-round pick in the 2025 draft. General manager Terry Fontenot has been fined $50,000 for his role in the violations, which primarily involved logistical and administrative infractions related to the negotiation period just before the official start of free agency in March.
“We’re pleased this review is complete,” the Falcons stated Thursday. “We cooperated fully with the league and its review and appreciate the NFL’s thoroughness. As we do with every process, we will review how we operate and look for ways to improve.”
The league’s investigation, spanning weeks, also involved the Philadelphia Eagles but concluded without disciplinary action. The NFL found insufficient evidence to support claims of tampering in the Eagles’ signing of former New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley.
“The investigation did not discover sufficient evidence to support a finding that the anti-tampering policy was violated,” the NFL stated, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. “In coming to this conclusion, the league reviewed phone logs, text messages, and other documents related to Philadelphia’s free agency strategy and decision to sign Barkley.”
Both incidents were triggered by public statements and reports during the free agency period. Kirk Cousins’ comments during his introductory press conference with the Vikings and claims from Penn State head coach James Franklin about conversations between Eagles GM Howie Roseman and Saquon Barkley prompted the league’s scrutiny.
“The NFL also interviewed several members of the organization, including Howie Roseman and (head coach) Nick Sirianni, as well as Barkley and Penn State head coach James Franklin,” the NFL statement read. “As with every review, should new evidence be uncovered, the league may reopen the investigation.”
