The Falcons aren’t playing Michael Penix Jr. in this week’s exhibition game against the Jaguars on Friday, nor did the rookie suit up last week against the Ravens.
It was a strange approach, considering Penix isn’t expected to play whatsoever with Kirk Cousins as the starter. Never before has a club been so cautious with their backup quarterback, but Raheem Morris has his reasons.
Atlanta’s head coach explained the risk of injury, inferring the lack of value he places on preseason reps. Though I disagree vehemently with Morris’ approach with Penix, I could understand it if he were consistent.
Why should Taylor Heinicke be playing in the preseason and not Michael Penix Jr.?
Morris’ reasoning is that he’s seen enough of Penix and wants to keep him healthy. Well, shouldn’t that be even more true for an expendable veteran like Heinicke?
The Falcons don’t need to see Heinicke. Everyone knows what he is at this point. That’s not the case with Penix; he needs every single rep he can get. Moreover, keeping Heinicke healthy should be a priority too. I hope the Falcons trade the veteran backup, but they can’t do that if he gets injured in the preseason.
In reality, the Falcons don’t need to be worried about Taylor Heinicke getting hurt in the preseason, but the same can be said for Michael Penix Jr. You can mitigate injury risk as much as possible; however, Raheem Morris cannot replicate the experience of a live-action game in a controlled setting for Penix.
—
Photographer: Jeff Robinson/Icon Sportswire
You must log in to post a comment.