Kirk Cousins Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Kirk Cousins spent the past six seasons as the starting quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings. But when he hit the free agent market, he decided that he wouldn’t be returning to the team, agreeing to a deal with the Atlanta Falcons, instead. And the Vikings were quick to react to his departure.

Shortly after news broke that Kirk Cousins planned to sign with the Atlanta Falcons, Vikings General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah issued a statement explaining why the Vikings were unable to sign Cousins and wishing him well.

“After significant and positive dialogue with Kirk and his representatives, we were unable to reach agreement on a contract that fits the short- and long-term visions for both Kirk and the Minnesota Vikings,” Adofo-Mensah said in a statement according to Pro Football Talk. “Kirk holds a special place in Vikings history, and we appreciate his leadership and contributions to the team and the Minneapolis-St. Paul community over the past six seasons. We wish him, his wife, Julie and their children all the best.”

After the departure of Cousins, it’s not immediately clear who the Cousins will decide on as their next quarterback, but it’s clear that they will have a new starter next season.

[Pro Football Talk]