FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Michael Penix Jr. exited the Atlanta Falcons’ training facility on Monday, proudly holding onto two game balls from his rookie season, which concluded with his initial three starts. The quarterback’s emergence as Atlanta’s starter has generated optimism among players, suggesting that they may achieve more than just personal mementos in the upcoming seasons. The aim for Penix and the Falcons in 2025 is to break a seven-year trend of losing seasons and playoff absences.
In spite of Penix throwing for 312 yards and contributing three touchdowns—two through the air and one on the ground—the Falcons faced a 44-38 overtime defeat against Carolina on Sunday, pushing their playoff drought and streak of losing seasons further. “There were plenty of ups and downs, but we displayed numerous impressive moments, much of which is showcased on film,” Penix remarked after he and his teammates emptied their lockers at the facility.
The Falcons concluded the season with an 8-9 record, failing to capitalize on a strong start of 6-3, which included Kirk Cousins at quarterback. Holding a two-game lead in the NFC South through nine games, Atlanta faltered in the closing stretch, suffering consecutive overtime losses—one of which was a 30-24 defeat at the hands of Washington on December 29.
Veteran defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, who has experienced all seven of Atlanta’s losing seasons, expressed the emotional turmoil surrounding the final two games. “Those overtime losses with playoff implications were incredibly intense, as either game could have gone in any direction,” he noted.
Penix demonstrated remarkable composure during his debut as a starter, leading the Falcons to a 34-7 victory over the New York Giants on December 23, a performance that left Atlanta in contention for the division title and garnered him his first game ball. He earned his second game ball for a rushing touchdown against Carolina.
The loss to the Commanders left the Falcons reliant on securing a victory against Carolina while also hoping for a Tampa Bay loss to New Orleans. Instead, the Buccaneers secured the division title by defeating the Saints just as the Falcons entered overtime.
With Penix firmly established as the starting quarterback for 2025, the organization now faces a crucial decision regarding Cousins, who was benched prior to Penix taking over. The 36-year-old quarterback had signed a four-year, $180 million contract the previous offseason, with $100 million guaranteed, which includes a $10 million clause if he remains on the roster after March 17. Notably, Cousins was absent during the media’s allowed time in the locker room on Monday.
Penix praised Cousins as “amazing,” highlighting the quarterback’s support after being replaced. Coach Raheem Morris indicated that the future of Cousins is a topic they will explore with general manager Terry Fontenot moving forward.
The Falcons’ defense came under scrutiny after allowing 537 yards against Carolina, a performance Morris labeled as an “awful game.” The lackluster defensive outing concluded with the Panthers scoring a touchdown to open overtime, preventing Penix, running back Bijan Robinson, and wide receiver Drake London from further enhancing their impressive statistics.
In response to questions about potential changes on the coaching staff, including defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake, Morris observed, “Having been around the league for a long time, it’s very unusual for things to remain stagnant.”
London concluded the season with a career-high 187 receiving yards and two touchdowns from 10 catches, while Robinson rushed for 170 yards and two scores. “This team has a wealth of playmakers who can create huge plays, and that’s something we’re really excited about,” Penix emphasized.
Penix, Robinson, and London were all first-round selections in their respective drafts, and Penix noted, “We’re a young team, with many emerging talents who can deliver significant plays.” Despite the disappointing outcome against Carolina, the quarterback has provided a glimmer of hope for the future. Morris commended Penix’s abilities, stating, “Despite our struggles on defense, we certainly have a quarterback who embodies our future and can execute in any game.”
The defense faced challenges despite strong performances from players such as cornerback A.J. Terrell, safety Jessie Bates, and linebacker Kaden Elliss. While suffering six losses out of the last eight games, they allowed 30 or more points in four of those contests. Bates recorded four interceptions, four forced fumbles, and 102 tackles, while Elliss led the team with 150 tackles, along with five sacks. Meanwhile, Terrell consistently matched up against opposing teams’ top wide receivers.
Looking ahead, the Falcons hold five selections in the upcoming NFL draft scheduled for April 24-26, with the 15th overall pick in the first round.
