Falcons choosing Michael Penix Jr. over Kirk Cousins isn’t a “risk” to their playoff hopes
Falcons expressed confidence in their decision to name Michael Penix Jr. as starter over Kirk Cousins, assuring it's not a risky move.
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Falcons choosing Michael Penix Jr. over Kirk Cousins (Via Fox News/Imago)
When the Atlanta Falcons drafted Michael Penix Jr. despite acquiring Kirk Cousins in a lucrative deal a month ago from the drafts, the latter’s position as a starter was considered to be threatened. And it appears his concerns were confirmed as the team decided to bench him in favor of the rookie to chase the remaining job for the playoff berth.
With a 7-7 record, the Falcons are hoping to clinch a spot in the postseason in the upcoming three weeks of the 2024 regular season. Although changing the starting position this late in the season poses some risk especially when the stakes are playoffs, the Falcons are confident in their decision to name Penix as starter.
During Wednesday’s press conference, Atlanta offensive coordinator Zac Robinson confirmed the news of benching Cousins and making Penix Jr. the starter for the remaining season, while assuring fans that this is not a risky move.
Yeah, I don’t view it as a risk. Obviously hasn’t got the game reps that are valuable, but he’s been able to get a feel for the offense, get a feel for what an NFL schedule is like Monday through Sunday…The game reps are valuable, obviously, but we feel great about where he’s at up to this point and everything he’s done to get to this point.
Zac Robinson said
Michael Penix Jr. has been named the Falcons’ starting quarterback moving forward.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 18, 2024
Robinson expressed his confidence in the young quarterback, believing that he would be poised when he stepped on the field against the New York Giants in Week 16. Additionally, he praised Penix for his calm attitude which would bring good nervous energy as he did in college football and high school.
Kirk Cousins acknowledges struggles as Falcons shift to rookie Michael Penix Jr.
Since they had already seen quarterback Cousins’ capabilities, they decided to give a chance to rookie quarterback Penix. The two-time Pro Bowler also addressed the media since the benching news came out and acknowledged that he hasn’t been able to play up to the standards.
It’s pro football. There’s a standard that I have for myself, that the team has for me. Unfortunately, I wasn’t playing up to that standard consistently enough. It is what it is. You roll with it… try to help our team be able to find a way to win these last three to get in the playoffs. That’s what it’s all about. That’s my focus.
Kirk Cousins said
Cousins also expressed his support for Penix, stating that he intends to help him in any way possible as he steps into the startling role. He might not be a starter anymore, but he shared he would continue preparing like he is.
Related: Jameis Winston gets REAL about Browns benching him after eight interceptions
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Pratyusha Srivastava
(2078 Articles Published)