The Atlanta Falcons made a seismic shift last night, announcing that rookie Michael Penix Jr. will take over as the starting quarterback, officially benching Kirk Cousins.
The decision was one the organization had clearly hoped to avoid, given the financial implications and the optics of moving on from Cousins just one season into a lucrative four-year contract. However, the 13-year veteran left the team with no other option. Over his last five games, Cousins had thrown just one touchdown compared to nine interceptions, far removed from the form he displayed before his Achilles injury last year.
Despite Cousins’ struggles, the Falcons remain in contention to break their postseason drought. They sit just one game behind the Buccaneers in the NFC South with three games remaining, holding the tiebreaker advantage in a tie scenario. Additionally, they’re still alive in the NFC Wild Card race.
For Atlanta to secure a playoff berth, they’ll need to finish the season 3-0, which is a tall order but one that is within reach given their manageable schedule. Michael Penix Jr. has a golden opportunity to cement himself as one of the most beloved athletes in the city if he can help end a postseason drought that’s existed since 2017.
The Falcons Path Ahead
Week 16 vs. New York Giants
The Falcons’ journey starts this Sunday with what should be a confidence-building matchup. The 2-12 Giants haven’t won a game since October 6th and have struggled mightily on both sides of the ball. A loss in this game would raise serious questions about the team beyond just the quarterback position.
Week 17 at Washington Commanders
This showdown, recently flexed to Sunday Night Football due to its playoff implications, will likely determine Atlanta’s fate. The Commanders currently hold the NFC’s final Wild Card spot, led by Rookie of the Year frontrunner Jayden Daniels. A Falcons victory in this game could put them in the driver’s seat for a Wild Card berth—or even the NFC South title if the Buccaneers stumble.
Week 18 vs. Carolina Panthers
The Falcons wrap up the season at home against the Panthers. While Carolina has shown improvement in recent weeks, this is a game Atlanta must win, especially if a playoff berth is on the line.
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Nobody should expect perfection from Michael Penix Jr., who hasn’t played in a live game in over a year. Growing pains and rookie mistakes are inevitable, but Penix brings a set of physical tools that Falcons fans haven’t seen in years. More importantly, he’s stepping into a situation where he has everything he needs to succeed: a solid run game, a talented receiving corps, and a clear understanding of the offense after a full season of preparation.
Penix’s primary job is simple—win football games. If he can do that and lead the Falcons to an improbable playoff berth, he’ll instantly become one of the most beloved athletes in Atlanta. In a city still searching for its next franchise quarterback, Penix has the chance to fill the void left by Matt Ryan and capture the hearts of Falcons fans everywhere.
The stage is set for Michael Penix Jr. to make his mark. Whether he can rise to the occasion remains to be seen, but the Falcons’ season now rests in his hands.
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Photo: John Byrum/Icon Sportswire
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