Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins, who is entering his 13th NFL season at the age of 36, has adopted a strict diet that includes cutting out gluten and all grains. Cousins shared in an interview with GQ that he peels the buns off his burgers and doesn’t usually eat them in an effort to avoid gluten. Other NFL quarterbacks like Tom Brady and Drew Brees have also eliminated gluten from their diets, but Cousins takes it a step further by cutting out all grains based on his specific blood chemistry. This dietary change has been inspired by Cousins’ experience dealing with a torn Achilles he suffered last season, which ended his time with the Minnesota Vikings.
Following his Achilles injury, Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons in the offseason, where he will be facing potential competition at the quarterback position with the addition of Michael Penix Jr. as a first-round draft pick. Despite being tabbed as the starter for the Falcons, Cousins knows he will be under scrutiny due to his large contract and the presence of Penix on the roster. To ensure he is in top physical condition and avoid another injury, Cousins is closely monitoring his diet and cutting out gluten, which has been linked to reducing inflammation, a factor that can lead to muscle stiffness and injury.
As Cousins ages and enters his late 30s, he knows that he must make sacrifices in his diet and lifestyle to maintain his performance and relevance in the NFL. By eliminating gluten and grains from his diet, Cousins is taking proactive steps to support his physical well-being and performance on the field. Inflammation, which can be caused by consuming gluten, can affect muscle flexibility and increase the risk of injuries such as tendon tears. Cousins is determined to stay healthy and maximize his chances of success with the Atlanta Falcons despite the challenges that come with aging in a physically demanding sport like football.
The trend of NFL players cutting out gluten and adopting gluten-free diets has gained popularity in recent years as more research has been published about the impact of gluten on physical health. Cousins’ decision to eliminate grains altogether, including rice and corn, is based on his personal blood tests that reveal his body doesn’t respond well to these foods. By tailoring his diet to his specific needs, Cousins is prioritizing his health and performance on the field, especially as he faces potential competition at the quarterback position with the Falcons.
Cousins’ dedication to his diet and overall health reflects his commitment to maintaining a high level of performance in the NFL despite the challenges of aging and potential competition within his team. By taking proactive measures such as cutting out gluten and grains, Cousins is aiming to support his physical well-being and reduce the risk of injuries that could hinder his career. As he embarks on his 13th NFL season with the Atlanta Falcons, Cousins is focused on staying in top shape and competing at the highest level possible in the demanding sport of professional football.
