Falcons Focus on Penix Jr. as Cousins Trade Stalls

The Atlanta Falcons have transitioned to Michael Penix Jr. as their starting quarterback for the 2025 season, moving on from Kirk Cousins after a disappointing 2024 campaign marked by a torn Achilles and declining performance. Despite Cousins' $180 million contract, the Falcons drafted Penix eighth overall in 2024, who quickly earned the trust of coaches and teammates with his football intelligence and potential. The team is tailoring its offense to Penix’s strengths, aiming to compete for the NFC South title with a talented supporting cast including Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts. Attempts to trade Cousins have stalled due to his large guaranteed salary and limited market interest, leaving him likely to remain as the backup. Falcons owner Arthur Blank's willingness to absorb Cousins' contract and the absence of viable suitors have further cemented this situation. However, the Falcons’ general manager Terry Fontenot faces significant pressure, as the franchise looks to Penix to justify its recent decisions and reverse years of losing seasons.