The Atlanta Falcons have made the surprising determination to bench quarterback Kirk Cousins and exchange him with rookie Michael Penix Jr., who will make his first profession begin on Sunday in opposition to the New York Giants.
“After overview, now we have made the choice Michael Penix would be the Atlanta Falcons beginning quarterback shifting ahead,” Falcons head coach Raheem Morris stated. “This was a soccer determination and we’re absolutely targeted on making ready the crew for Sunday’s sport in opposition to the New York Giants.”
This represents the second time the Falcons have surprised the soccer world with Penix Jr.
Atlanta signed Cousins to a four-year, $180 million deal throughout free company earlier than choosing Penix Jr. with the eighth total choose within the 2024 NFL draft, which caught many off guard.
The Giants, who desperately tried to commerce up for a prime quarterback however failed, handed on Penix Jr. at No. 6 total and chosen LSU extensive receiver Malik Nabers as an alternative.
Now they are going to get a firsthand have a look at what might have been.
Penix Jr. revitalized his school profession at Washington, throwing for 9,544 yards, 67 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions over two seasons. He was a two-time Second-Group All-Pac-12 choice, the AP Comeback Participant of the Yr in 2022, and a First-Group All-American in 2023. He additionally received the Maxwell Award final 12 months.
Penix Jr. has appeared in simply two video games for the Falcons this season, finishing three of his 5 passes for 38 yards.