Former Falcons Wide Receiver Shares His Thoughts on Michael Penix Jr.

Just like in life, an NFL season brings its share of surprises, disappointments, and chances to shine. We often find ourselves drawn to the stories of those who have triumphed against the odds, the true underdogs in their field. In the world of football, these are the players who frequently go unnoticed, sitting low on the depth charts throughout the league. One remarkable example is former Falcons receiver Brian Finneran, who went undrafted and spent his first two seasons in relative anonymity. That all changed when he became a key target for Michael Vick during the 2002 season, helping lead Atlanta back to the playoffs, a feat the franchise hopes to replicate in 2025.

Craig: When I think of that 2002 season, it begins with that Week 3 National ESPN Sunday Night Game against the Bengals, where you scored a pair of touchdowns.

Finneran: That game was a fun one! We didn’t throw the ball very much, and we didn’t have to. We ran it well, played good defense, had good special teams, and executed in the red zone. We were 0 and 2 heading into that game, and the win gave us some confidence, and we started putting some victories together.

Craig: Let’s talk about the present day. Where do you ultimately think Kirk Cousins lands?

Finneran: I’m not sure where Kirk will land, as the options are limited. It looks like the Steelers might be in the mix, but if I had to bet you, I’d say he’s going to be on the bench backing up Michael Penix. It’s a good insurance policy because injuries, as we know, happen, and they occur in camp or the regular season, which will put him in there.

Craig: Does Michael Penix Jr. have the tools to become an elite QB in this league?

Finneran: I think he does. He has the tools to be the guy for years to come. He showed us that in three weeks of work at the end of last season with two-minute drills, high leverage situations with games on the line, etc. What I like is that he has a super strong arm, and he’s not afraid to throw the ball downfield, into traffic, and he looked comfortable in the pocket.

Craig: Make or break season for Coach Morris and his staff?

Finneran: Everyone is on the hot seat (laughs). The GM, the scouts, the coaches, they’re all on the hot seat. The Falcons have to make it to the postseason. Another bad year could definitely spell trouble for some of them.