For the first time since Matt Ryan took over in 2008, the Falcons will be starting a rookie top 10 pick under center as the Michael Penix Jr. era officially begins in Atlanta.
Kirk Cousins was handed three top 10 picks at tight end, wideout, and running back to go along with a new free agent receiver and five returning starters along the offensive line. It has the bones to be an elite unit, but Cousins’ physical limitations and decision making held the offense back.
On paper, the Falcons should be much better than they currently are, and the hope is that Michael Penix’s insertion will help that side of the ball realize its full potential. The rookie is certainly set up to succeed with the Falcons.
Penix has a better-than-average run game to lean on behind a better-than-average offensive line with an elite skill group. The Falcons boast a support system that is, at worst, as good as any other rookie quarterback’s situation.
Outside of the play caller, the combination of the Falcons offensive line and skill group is better than what Bo Nix has in Denver, Caleb Williams has in Chicago, Drake Maye has in New England, and Jayden Daniels has in Washington.
There’s no reason why Michael Penix cannot come into Atlanta and immediately be successful, especially while watching Kirk Cousins for the last six months. While the veteran has fallen short on the field, there’s no arguing his immense value off the field.
Penix has watched what a true veteran signal caller does on a day-to-day basis, and though the entire situation could’ve been handled better from a resource perspective, the presence of Kirk Cousins has only benefited Michael Penix Jr.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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