The Atlanta Falcons are turning the page at quarterback. Rookie Michael Penix Jr. has been named the team’s starter, replacing veteran Kirk Cousins.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris made the announcement Tuesday evening, just hours after deflecting questions about the team’s quarterback situation at a press conference. Penix, the No. 8 overall pick in April’s NFL Draft, will make his first career start on Sunday against the New York Giants (2-12) in Atlanta.
“After review we have made the decision Michael Penix will be the Atlanta Falcons starting quarterback moving forward,” Morris said in a statement released by the team. “This was a football decision and we are fully focused on preparing the team for Sunday’s game against the New York Giants.”
The decision comes on the heels of a lackluster offensive performance in Monday night’s narrow 15-9 victory over the two-win Las Vegas Raiders. Despite the win, Atlanta struggled to score, managing only one touchdown. The Falcons’ defense and special teams carried the night, forcing a fumble and blocking two punts, but their offensive woes persisted.
Kirk Cousins, who joined the Falcons this offseason on a massive four-year, $180 million contract, completed just 11 of 17 passes for 112 yards with one touchdown and one interception. His downfield accuracy and mobility have been a concern since his return from a torn Achilles tendon suffered last season.
The Falcons (7-7) remain in the hunt for a playoff spot but sit outside the NFC picture for now. With pivotal games ahead against the Giants, Commanders, and Panthers, the team is hoping Penix can provide a needed spark.
Penix enters the starting role with limited NFL experience. He has appeared in two games this season, completing 3 of 5 passes. However, the rookie brings excitement and potential after leading one of college football’s most dynamic offenses at Washington. The Falcons’ decision to draft Penix eighth overall, just months after signing Cousins, raised eyebrows across the league. Now, the team gets its first real look at their highly touted draft pick.
Cousins’ tenure as Atlanta’s starter, for now, appears to be over. Through 14 games, he completed 66.9% of his passes for an average of 250.6 yards per game, throwing 18 touchdowns and a league-worst 16 interceptions.
With the postseason on the line, all eyes will be on Michael Penix Jr. as he makes his starting debut and tries to lead the Falcons into playoff contention.