Latest news with #Penix
Fox Sports
2 days ago
- Sport
- Fox Sports
Falcons' Darnell Mooney: 'I didn't come here for 1,000 yards; I came here to win'
Wide receiver Darnell Mooney is entering his second season with the Atlanta Falcons, and he has one goal in mind: winning. "I didn't really come here [to Atlanta] for 1,000 yards. I came here to win," Mooney said Friday, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "So, for, you know, anybody that's like creating that as a top tier for the receivers, that's not what I came here to do. I came here to win games." Mooney totaled 64 receptions for 992 yards (a career-high 15.5 yards per reception) and a career-high five touchdowns last season. He ranked 36th among wide receivers with a 74.0 overall grade, according to Pro Football Focus. Mooney missed one game due to a shoulder injury, which was a Week 18 matchup against the Carolina Panthers. Mooney offered up analysis on his 2024 performance. "I did pretty well with the deep routes, and the biggest thing that I want to do is catch the ball and take something to the [end zone]," Mooney said. "Make at least three people miss, have some exciting plays." Mooney is entering the second season of a three-year, $39 million deal with the Falcons. The receiver spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the Chicago Bears (2020-23), where he totaled 81 receptions for 1,055 yards and four touchdowns in 2021. Granted, Mooney averaged just 36 receptions for 454 receiving yards per season from 2022-23. Mooney is part of a Falcons' pass-catching corps that includes wide receivers Drake London — who totaled a career high in receptions (100), receiving yards (1,271) and receiving touchdowns (nine) in 2024 — and Ray-Ray McCloud (career-high with both 62 receptions and 686 receiving yards in 2024) and tight end Kyle Pitts. Atlanta also has star running back Bijan Robinson, who earned a Pro Bowl nod last season after rushing for 1,456 yards and 14 touchdowns, while tallying 431 receiving yards. Atlanta benched veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins for Michael Penix Jr., selected with the No. 8 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Washington, after 14 games. The Falcons went 1-2 with Penix under center and missed the playoffs with an 8-9 record. That said, Penix is Atlanta's future at quarterback, and Mooney is enthusiastic about what's to come with the second-year signal-caller. "He throws the ball very, very far," Mooney said about Penix. "He has a strong arm. He can get it out whenever he needs to. Like, if it feels like he's late, he won't be late. He can get the ball there in time." Want great stories delivered right to your inbox? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account, and follow leagues, teams and players to receive a personalized newsletter daily! FOLLOW Follow your favorites to personalize your FOX Sports experience National Football League Atlanta Falcons Darnell Mooney recommended Get more from National Football League Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. explains what he learned from Matt Ryan
The Atlanta Falcons believe they have their quarterback of the future in Michael Penix Jr. The former No. 8 overall pick showed enough during his rookie season to earn the keys to the offense going into Year 2. Despite having veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins on the roster, the Falcons had Penix link up with former league MVP Matt Ryan over the offseason. Ryan, who spent 14 years as Atlanta's starting quarterback, knows what it takes to succeed in this league and how to be a leader. Advertisement The Falcons are hoping some of those characteristics rub off on Penix, and it sounds like the second-year QB enjoyed his time speaking with Ryan. Following Day 1 of organized team activities, Penix was asked what he learned in his conversations with Ryan. "Just learning how to be a pro, each and every day, and how his process went and how he went about his business each and every day," Penix explained. "I feel like he definitely gave me a lot of good [advice]." Over 15 NFL seasons (14 in Atlanta), Ryan passed for 62,792 yards, 381 touchdowns and 183 interceptions for a passer rating of 93.6. The former third overall pick's best season came in 2016 when he led the team to a Super Bowl appearance and took home the league MVP trophy. Advertisement Penix was forced to sit behind Cousins for much of his rookie season before taking over the starting job in Week 16. The former Washington Huskies QB passed for 778 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions. While Penix needs to improve his completion percentage, his ability to push the ball downfield seemed to open up the offense over the final few weeks. The Falcons quarterback is taking his leadership role seriously. Penix explained that in order to be a good leader, he must build relationships with his teammates. "I feel like you can't lead nobody whenever you don't know them," Penix said after Friday's OTA practice. "I feel like you got to build relationships. And for me, I want to get to know those guys so I can know who can take certain leadership styles." Around Falcons Wire This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. working with Matt Ryan on leadership
USA Today
4 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Falcons starting lineup projection: Ryan Neuzil solidifies center position
Falcons starting lineup projection: Ryan Neuzil solidifies center position Projecting the Falcons' starting lineups on offense, defense and special teams. The Atlanta Falcons entered the 2025 NFL offseason with several holes to fill, but given their lack of resources, they did a decent job of filling them. The team drafted four potential long-term starters in Jalon Walker, James Pearce Jr., Xavier Watts and Billy Bowman, while adding key free agents such as Leonard Floyd and Jordan Fuller. The Falcons lost center Drew Dalman in free agency but signed veteran Ryan Neuzil to a two-year deal on Wednesday evening. Neuzil is a lock to start at center this season, but what other players will crack Atlanta's starting lineup in 2025? Check out our latest Falcons starting lineup projections for the 2025 NFL season below. QB: Michael Penix Jr. The Falcons didn't make any surprise quarterback picks in this year's draft and Michael Penix Jr. will return as the team's QB1. Penix showed a good mix of poise and aggression during his rookie season. With a full offseason to prepare as the starter, and the help of Falcons legend Matt Ryan, the former top-10 pick could be in for a monster year. RB: Bijan Robinson Robinson is about as good as it gets at the running back position. The former Texas star made the Pro Bowl after an incredible 2024 campaign in Atlanta. Robinson is just as big of a threat in the passing game as he is in the running game, and he finished third in the NFL with 1,456 yards on the ground last season. WR: Drake London London recorded his first 1,000-yard season in 2024. Entering his fourth year, expect the former USC star to put up monster numbers with Penix throwing him the ball. The physical nature of London's game pairs well with Penix's aggressiveness, which was on display in the season finale. WR: Darnell Mooney Mooney nearly recorded his second 1,000-yard season in 2024 and his future is bright in Zac Robinson's offense. His ability to get separation helps open things up for London and the rest of the team's weapons. He should only be better during his second season in Atlanta. WR: Ray-Ray McCloud McCloud had his ups and downs last season but still produced at a career level. The former 49ers wideout is the clear-cut No. 3 receiver entering the 2025 season. Agnew isn't a threat to take McCloud's spot at receiver, but he gives the team more depth in the slot. TE: Kyle Pitts The Falcons did not draft a tight end, so Pitts appears to be safe for 2025. Entering the final year of his rookie contract, the former top-five pick has a chance to re-establish himself before hitting free agency. Perhaps more consistent QB play will help Pitts regain his rookie form. TE: Charlie Woerner Woerner is a solid blocker and a valuable piece to Atlanta's running game. You won't hear his name called much as a receiver, but there's more to playing tight end than catching passes. LT: Jake Matthews Matthews signed a two-year extension that keeps him in Atlanta through the 2028 season. The veteran left tackle has been a consistent anchor to the offensive line for most of his NFL career. That won't change as long as he's in Atlanta. LG: Matthew Bergeron While Bergeron tends to be the forgotten man up front, he's developed into a quality left guard over his first two NFL seasons. He's a monster in the running game and is improving as a pass protector. The Falcons placed a right-of-refusal tender on the veteran center at the start of free agency, and finally signed Neuzil to a two-year, $9.5 million Wednesday evening. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Neuzil's contract includes $6.25 million in guaranteed money. With Drew Dalman in Chicago, it's Neuzil's time to shine. RG: Chris Lindstrom Lindstrom is arguably the best right guard in the NFL and Atlanta's best offensive lineman. He made the Pro Bowl again last season and doesn't appear to be slowing down. It doesn't get much better than Lindstrom in the running game. RT: Kaleb McGary McGary, a former first-round pick, overcame some early career struggles to develop into a quality starter. He's dominant in the running game and while he still occasionally struggles in pass protection, McGary is a valuable part of the offensive line. DL: Zach Harrison This is another spot that I've gone back and forth on, partly due to the team implementing a new defensive scheme. Harrison has more upside than Ta'Quon Graham or Morgan Fox. It just comes down to whether the team wants to go with a more experienced player here to begin the season. For now, I'm riding with Harrison on the starting train. DL: David Onyemata The veteran defensive lineman is a lock to start after the team did little in the 2025 NFL draft to upgrade the position group. Onyemata is still a quality interior defensive lineman but he'll have to step up this season to help make up for the losses of Jarrett and Eddie Goldman. DL: Ruke Orhorhoro The 2024 second-round pick had an underwhelming rookie season but he didn't get much of a chance to prove himself. Orhorhoro could play a key role in 2025, likely as a starter in Jeff Ulbrich's defense. When he did get on the field last season, there was a lot to like. OLB: James Pearce Jr. (rookie) I swapped out Arnold Ebiketie for first-round pick James Pearce Jr. here based on what the team gave up for the Volunteers edge rusher. Pearce is too talented to keep off the field. However, Ebiketie should still have a big role. With such a young team up front, I expect the team to rotate quite a bit as the young players get their feet wet. ILB: Kaden Elliss Elliss' job is safe after the draft and he is set to return as the team's starting inside linebacker in 2025. The former New Orleans Saint has really come into his own over the last two seasons in Atlanta and should continue to ascend next year with better surrounding talent. LB: Jalon Walker (rookie) The battle between Troy Andersen and Divine Deablo has been settled with the selection of Walker in Round 1. I think the team ultimately views the Georgia standout as an edge rusher, but he'll probably line up all over this season due to his experience as both an off-ball linebacker and on the line of scrimmage. OLB: Leonard Floyd Floyd isn't the team's long-term answer, but he's probably a lock to start this season. The veteran signed with Atlanta in free agency and he's recorded at least 8.5 sacks in the last five NFL seasons for three different teams. Floyd was brought in to bring down opposing quarterbacks, something he clearly does well. CB: A.J. Terrell Terrell had a nice season in 2024 and should continue to be a staple of the Falcons secondary again in 2025. The former first-round pick doesn't get a ton of interceptions, but he's someone who can neutralize the opponent's No. 1 wide receiver most weeks. His extension is looking more affordable as the cornerback market continues to grow. CB: Mike Hughes Hughes played well for much of the season and was rewarded with a three-year, $18 million contract to remain in Atlanta. He's not exactly an elite No. 2 cornerback, but he's an affordable option who can hold his own. That's money well spent. Nickel CB: Dee Alford The Falcons drafted Billy Bowman and will have him work at the nickel spot. However, veteran Dee Alford is still in line to start. The former undrafted free agent has appeared in 48 games over the last three seasons with 16 starts. We also expect Clark Phillips to play an expanded role this season. FS: Jessie Bates III Jessie Bates is one of the best playmaking safeties in the NFL and should continue to be next season now that Atlanta has added Fuller. He played well despite a lack of pressure from Atlanta's front seven last season. Fuller seems like a better fit next to Bates, which bodes well for the secondary next season. SS: Jordan Fuller This one was tough. I think third-round pick Xavier Watts will eventually start at safety, but the Falcons signed Fuller as a replacement for Justin Simmons in free agency. Considering Fuller's familiarity with head coach Raheem Morris from their time together in Los Angeles, we're penciling him in as the other starter next to Jessie Bates for Week 1. Watts should still see the field plenty this season. KR/PR: Jamal Agnew Agnew is a former All-Pro return specialist, who's handled kick and punt return duties for much of his career. He can also contribute as a receiver, but will primarily be featured on special teams. Not only does he fill a need with Avery Williams signing with the Eagles, but Agnew has experience playing for Falcons special teams coordinator Marquice Williams in Detroit. K: Younghoe Koo Koo had an up-and-down season in 2024 as he fought through an injury. Considering the veteran kicker has been remarkably consistent throughout his time in Atlanta, it's a safe bet that he will bounce back in 2025. However, the team did sign Lenny Krieg to add some competition in training camp. P: Bradley Pinion Pinion is one of the more underrated punters in the NFL. If you don't hear his name, that just means he's doing his job. LS: Liam McCullough McCullough was the first player Atlanta re-signed in free agency. The veteran quietly does his job, which is all you can ask for out of any long snapper. Around Falcons Wire
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Why the numbers show promise for Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr.
Even though he just started in three games last season, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix flashed some pretty brilliant stretches of play to close out the 2024 NFL season. Still one of the more polarizing NFL quarterbacks in recent memory, some people choose to focus on Penix's elite arm talent and ability to make throws all over the field while others choose to focus on his accuracy issues and lack of mobility. Your opinions of Penix are probably strong, and the film probably confirms your of those talking points expectedly popped up in his rookie starts, but this excellent chart from Underdog's Hayden Winks shows where the analytics support Penix's chances of being a real force at the position. Winks tracked all the NFL's 2024 starting quarterbacks and removed reps involving screens, run-play options, spikes and unblocked pressures in his chart. Among his fellow quarterbacks, Penix shined in his three-game sample with his Pro Football Focus scores, his yards per pass attempt, his sack rate, his big-time throw rate and his turnover-worthy play rate. Penix's scramble rate was predictably low since he's an inherent pocket passer, while his first-read rate on his passes were about in the league average and on par with many of his fellow rookies. QB stats removing screens, RPOs, spikes, and unblocked pressures. I highlighted the rookies. — Hayden Winks (@HaydenWinks) May 28, 2025 Penix's big-time throw rate is particularly eye-popping, as he stacked up with players like Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson and Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in being able to generate big-time throws with their arm. Of course, Richardson has struggled throughout his tenure in Indianapolis, a more agile quarterback with his legs but one who has struggled with his health, turning the ball over and general consistency. Penix's floor is probably a less agile Richardson, but he flashed big-play ability on par with Allen and Jackson last year, too. Penix's ability to generate big plays with his arm, his ability to gain meaningful yards per pass, his ability to avoid sacks and his ability to not turn the ball over will be critical as he tries to build on his rookie success. It's important to underscore, again, this was a three-game sample for Penix, and all of those games came against non-elite defenses in the New York Giants, the Washington Commanders and the Carolina Panthers. However, any rookie quarterback putting up these analytics in their first three starts against any NFL opponents should offer some encouragement. Penix staying healthy, learning to vary the pass touch on his howitzer of an arm, building a chemistry with his Falcons receivers and sanding down his general accuracy concerns will be critical to his 2025 success, but it's well within the realm of possibility that he'll continue to improve on his flaws and heighten his strengths. Developing more chemistry with Atlanta's receiving corps is basically a given now that Penix is entrenched as the full-time starter. Sure, the numbers may balance out just a bit for Penix next year once he faces stiffer competition and goes through the complex rigors of his first full starting season in the NFL. However, some of what he flashed in his first season cannot be taught or developed. It's just pure ability, something Penix seems to have in bulk. If you're a Falcons fan, you've got plenty reason for optimism about Penix's future in the NFL. While the NFL has only seen a small sample size of what he can do, the numbers look pretty promising. This article originally appeared on For The Win: Why the numbers show promise for Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr.
USA Today
5 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Why the numbers show promise for Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr.
Why the numbers show promise for Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. Even though he just started in three games last season, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix flashed some pretty brilliant stretches of play to close out the 2024 NFL season. Still one of the more polarizing NFL quarterbacks in recent memory, some people choose to focus on Penix's elite arm talent and ability to make throws all over the field while others choose to focus on his accuracy issues and lack of mobility. Your opinions of Penix are probably strong, and the film probably confirms your priors. Why Michael Penix Jr. is the reason the Falcons got 5 2025 NFL prime-time games All of those talking points expectedly popped up in his rookie starts, but this excellent chart from Underdog's Hayden Winks shows where the analytics support Penix's chances of being a real force at the position. Winks tracked all the NFL's 2024 starting quarterbacks and removed reps involving screens, run-play options, spikes and unblocked pressures in his chart. Among his fellow quarterbacks, Penix shined in his three-game sample with his Pro Football Focus scores, his yards per pass attempt, his sack rate, his big-time throw rate and his turnover-worthy play rate. Penix's scramble rate was predictably low since he's an inherent pocket passer, while his first-read rate on his passes were about in the league average and on par with many of his fellow rookies. Penix's big-time throw rate is particularly eye-popping, as he stacked up with players like Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson and Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in being able to generate big-time throws with their arm. Of course, Richardson has struggled throughout his tenure in Indianapolis, a more agile quarterback with his legs but one who has struggled with his health, turning the ball over and general consistency. Penix's floor is probably a less agile Richardson, but he flashed big-play ability on par with Allen and Jackson last year, too. Penix's ability to generate big plays with his arm, his ability to gain meaningful yards per pass, his ability to avoid sacks and his ability to not turn the ball over will be critical as he tries to build on his rookie success. It's important to underscore, again, this was a three-game sample for Penix, and all of those games came against non-elite defenses in the New York Giants, the Washington Commanders and the Carolina Panthers. However, any rookie quarterback putting up these analytics in their first three starts against any NFL opponents should offer some encouragement. Penix staying healthy, learning to vary the pass touch on his howitzer of an arm, building a chemistry with his Falcons receivers and sanding down his general accuracy concerns will be critical to his 2025 success, but it's well within the realm of possibility that he'll continue to improve on his flaws and heighten his strengths. Developing more chemistry with Atlanta's receiving corps is basically a given now that Penix is entrenched as the full-time starter. Sure, the numbers may balance out just a bit for Penix next year once he faces stiffer competition and goes through the complex rigors of his first full starting season in the NFL. However, some of what he flashed in his first season cannot be taught or developed. It's just pure ability, something Penix seems to have in bulk. If you're a Falcons fan, you've got plenty reason for optimism about Penix's future in the NFL. While the NFL has only seen a small sample size of what he can do, the numbers look pretty promising.
