Despite another campaign marred by catastrophic blunders, there’s a radiant light shining at the end of the tunnel in Michael Penix Jr.
The rookie quarterback stepped in the place of Kirk Cousins for the final three games of the season and performed better than anybody could have possibly imagined, given the circumstances. The tape is littered with highlight throws that no other quarterback in franchise history has made, but even more noteworthy, Penix’s decision-making, anticipation, and poise under pressure are signs that he is indeed the Falcons next franchise quarterback.
The 8th overall pick in the 2024 draft rarely threw a turnover-worthy pass in three starts, even though some poor luck resulted in three interceptions. He proved he could read coverages and pressures at a high level with very little experience, and in the biggest moments of each game, he played his best football.
The Falcons were never going to win a Super Bowl this season. Even if Kirk Cousins’ play didn’t fall off the face of the earth, there were still many holes for him to overcome. Atlanta’s only real hope for the future was Michael Penix Jr., and he delivered. There’s little doubt the Falcons found their next franchise quarterback heading into the 2025 season, and he had a message for the fans following a disappointing loss to the Panthers to end the year.
“Continue to believe. We’ve got a lot of talent on this team, a lot of talent coming back. I look forward to a lot of playoffs and Super Bowls here,” Penix said, via Marc Raimondi of ESPN on Twitter/X.
After seven straight seasons under .500, it’s understandable for Falcons fans to believe nothing but more failure is around the corner. Hell, I’m right there with you most of the time, but Michael Penix Jr. really does have the makings of something special, and better days are most certainly ahead.
