Michael Penix Jr. takes over as Falcons' starting QB; $27.5M Kirk Cousins moved to backup role
Michael Penix Jr. era begins in Atlanta (Image via: Getty Images)
The Atlanta Falcons have named Michael Penix Jr. as their starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season, moving veteran Kirk Cousins to a backup role. Cousins, who is set to earn $27.5 million, now faces trade speculation.
With Penix taking over, the Falcons are entering a new era and one of the NFL's biggest storylines is unfolding in Atlanta.
Michael Penix Jr. era begins in Atlanta as Kirk Cousins takes a backseat
The Atlanta Falcons are making headlines after officially naming Michael Penix Jr. as their starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season. In a surprising move, veteran Kirk Cousins, who signed a $180 million deal just last year, has been moved to a backup role.
Penix, the No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, showed flashes of potential in three starts last season.
Despite a 1-2 record, his big-play ability and aggressive downfield throws gave Atlanta fans a glimpse of what the future might hold. Now, that future is here.
Atlanta Falcons 2025 Schedule Prediction | How will Michael Penix Jr. look as starting QB?
The decision signals a major shift for the franchise. Cousins was brought in to stabilize the offense and help the Falcons return to playoff relevance. But after an underwhelming season and mounting pressure from fans and media alike, the coaching staff is going all-in on youth and upside.
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Falcons emerge as must-watch team in 2025 amid bold QB decision and
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Bleacher Report's Brad Gagnon ranked the Falcons among the top teams to watch in 2025, pointing to their high-risk quarterback change as a key storyline.
'The Falcons are gambling that sophomore first-round pick Michael Penix Jr. can do more with a stacked group of offensive weapons than Kirk Cousins could in 2024.'
With the NFC South wide open, the timing couldn't be more crucial. Atlanta has also upgraded its defense by drafting top prospects Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., adding fuel to a playoff push.
Penix brings potential, but questions remain about his consistency, accuracy, and ability to handle pressure. Meanwhile, Cousins' future is uncertain, with trade rumors already circulating.
Also Read:
NFL Trade Rumors: Steelers eye $275M QB Trevor Lawrence as Aaron Rodgers' successor ahead of 2026 offseason
NFL insider Brent Sobleski even suggested that a potential deal involving Cousins and the New Orleans Saints could still happen especially with Penix now firmly in control.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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