Kirk Cousins Avoids Gluten in Burgers to Prevent Injuries
- Kirk Cousins peels burger buns to avoid gluten and prevent injuries.
- Gluten has been linked to decreasing injuries, prompting Cousins to make dietary changes.
- Cousins' unique approach to burger consumption aims to improve his health and performance on the field.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins, now 36, is gearing up for his 13th season in the NFL, adopting a gluten-free diet as part of his health regimen. In a recent interview with GQ, Cousins revealed that he often removes the buns from his burgers, consuming only the fillings to avoid gluten. This dietary choice reflects a growing trend among aging NFL players who are increasingly mindful of their nutrition and its impact on performance. Cousins, who enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career in 2022, signed a lucrative four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons during the offseason. His former team, the Minnesota Vikings, have made significant changes, including signing quarterback Sam Darnold and drafting J.J. McCarthy, who has already faced injury challenges. As Cousins prepares to lead the Falcons, he is aware of the scrutiny that comes with his high salary and the presence of backup quarterback Michael Penix. The decision to cut out gluten and grains stems from Cousins' personal health assessments, which indicated that inflammation could hinder his performance. Inflammation can lead to muscle stiffness and joint pain, making it crucial for athletes like Cousins to manage their diets as they age. As he enters his late 30s, the quarterback recognizes that sacrifices, such as forgoing burger buns, may be necessary to maintain his competitive edge in the league. For ongoing updates on sports, fans can follow Fox News Digital’s coverage and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.