Michael Penix Jr. and Drake London lead Falcons' offensive transformation leading up to 2025 season
Michael Penix Jr. and Drake London (via Getty Images)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is committed to creating elite chemistry with his wideouts—and early indications are that there's a huge jump on the way this season.
Following a strong conclusion to the 2024 season and a series of offseason workouts, Penix and standout wideout Drake London are building the foundation for what could be the NFL's most potent passing attack.
Michael Penix Jr. aims for breakout synergy with Drake London, Darnell Mooney, and Ray-Ray McCloud
Michael Penix MAKING PLAYS At Atlanta Falcons OTAs Practice - Drake London NASTY
In only his third week of full work with Atlanta Falcons starters during his previous season, Michael Penix Jr.
made some noise. One of the loudest was in Week 18 versus the Carolina Panthers. With three seconds remaining before halftime, Penix launched a laser of a back-shoulder pass to Drake London in tight coverage for a 20-yard touchdown — a glimpse of what their relationship could be.
Now solidly entrenched as Atlanta's opening-day quarterback in 2025, Penix is laser-sharp on building that trust with his receivers. London, who had a career-high season in 2024 with 100 catches, 1,271 yards, and nine touchdowns, is the focal point for that process.
Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson was effusive in his praise of the instant chemistry between Penix and London, calling them 'might've prepared a play once in practice and called it flawlessly in a game.' With Penix now fully taking over the offense, Robinson and the coaching staff are hopeful of more improvement.
Outside of London, Penix will also have a decent set of targets in Darnell Mooney and Ray-Ray McCloud III.
Mooney, a former Bears receiver, had five touchdowns and 992 yards last season. McCloud set personal highs with 62 catches and 686 yards. Tight end Kyle Pitts also emerged as a safety valve late in the season.
Wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard thinks Atlanta's depth is better than ever. Second-year players Casey Washington and Chris Blair are likely to battle for bigger roles after developing chemistry with Penix on the second team last season.
Veterans such as KhaDarel Hodge—who caught a game-winning clutch pass against Tampa Bay—and special teamers like Jamal Agnew bring experience and versatility.
New additions are undrafted standout San José State's Nick Nash, who set the FBS record at 16 receiving touchdowns in 2024. Also in the running are former CFL standout Makai Polk and former Giants wide receiver David Sills V, who timed 22 mph in recent team drills.
As the Falcons start offseason training, expectations for Penix and his receiving group are high. With Drake London's fifth-year option being exercised and exciting young players such as Bijan Robinson on board, Atlanta may be putting together a long-term offensive core.
Also read:
Michael Penix Jr. responds to Durag question: 'You Gotta Catch Me at Like a Dinner with Arthur Blank'
If the offseason training is any measure, the Falcons are wagering that Michael Penix Jr.'s development and his synchronicity with London, Mooney, and Pitts will elevate Atlanta's offense from a work in progress to a serious playoff contender in 2025.
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