Raheem Morris’ Honest Michael Penix Jr. Admission Casts Doubts on Kirk Cousins’ Future with the Falcons

Michael Penix Jr. emerges as a key contender for QB1 in Georgia as the Atlanta Falcons look to end their playoff drought.

Raheem Morris’ Honest Michael Penix Jr. Admission Casts Doubts on Kirk Cousins’ Future with the Falcons

Michael Penix Jr., Kirk Cousins; Raheem Morris (Images via CNN/FOX/Daily Mail)

As veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins continues to evade the OTAs, Michael Penix Jr. is increasingly favored to begin the 2025 season as the Atlanta Falcons’ starting quarterback. The second-year quarterback had already replaced Cousins midway through the last season after the latter’s disheartening performances.

With each passing day, Penix’s role in the team’s immediate plans grows more significant. Head coach Raheem Morris appeared open to the possibility of a shift under center.

The Falcons signed Cousins with high expectations after his time with the Minnesota Vikings. However, his woeful performances led to the midseason benching. In addition, his current absence must have complicated those expectations and plans.

Meanwhile, Penix Jr. has quietly continued to build connections and confidence with teammates. His steady presence has not gone unnoticed in Atlanta’s offseason preparations.

Morris emphasized the importance of Penix’s development and team integration during early workouts. The quarterback’s leadership is becoming increasingly visible across both offensive and defensive units. With no clarity on Cousins’ intentions, the Falcons may lean towards the second-year Penix sooner than expected.

When you take over that quarterback spot, there’s a certain humility about playing the position. Then, it (comes) a certain confidence about playing the position… We’re not there yet. I don’t think we will be for a little bit, but I think he’s at the mode of where he’s starting to get that confidence to be able to figure out how to get to that point.

Morris said, via the Associated Press

The Falcons have a challenging stretch of games to open the season. In the first five weeks, they will face four playoff qualifiers from the previous season, including the reigning division title holder, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, their schedule gets far easier as the season progresses. Therefore, establishing consistency at quarterback early will be essential to exploit the weakest division of the National Football League.

Michael Penix Jr. focused on leadership as Falcons weigh QB1 options

Michael Penix has also taken initiative in developing personal connections throughout the roster, both on and off the field. In a recent revelation to the reporters, Penix claimed that the effort has made a visible difference in team dynamics and trust-building.

Michael Penix Jr.
Michael Penix Jr. (Image via B/R)

The one that I want to point to is just connecting with the guys. I feel like I’ve done a lot better with connecting with everybody around the team.

Penix told reporters.

He emphasized the importance of bonding beyond the locker room. He noted that he also has been spending time with team members off the field, through dinners and golf games. Moreover, he also confessed that he is not very good at golf, making his efforts way more noteworthy. He also credited a veteran voice, Matt Ryan, who’s guiding him through this transition.

I spoke to Matt Ryan and had a good conversation with him. He definitely gave me some good things… he knows this is my second year and first year starting.

Penix Jr. added

Whether it is the whole dinner and the connection aspect, Penix and his receiver, Drake London, have exhibited a good sync. London finished the past season with strong numbers, and will be confident going into the new season.

Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson said that Penix and London had connected during the offseason and had also spent a few weeks working together on the field.

He noted that their chemistry would continue to develop, despite having limited reps heading into games. Robinson added that it was impressive to see them execute plays successfully after preparing them only once in practice, and he believed their connection would continue to improve. The chemistry also extended to the rest of the receiving and offensive lines, such as Darrell Mooney.

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