The Atlanta Falcons are dealing a major blow to their season after quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was confirmed to need season-ending surgery on his left knee.
The team announced the news on Wednesday, following Penix’s placement on injured reserve just two days earlier.
The injury involves a partially torn ACL, forcing the young quarterback out for the remainder of the year.
Veteran Cousins Steps In as Starter
With Penix sidelined, veteran Kirk Cousins will take over as the Falcons’ starting quarterback.
Cousins now prepares to lead the team against the New Orleans Saints this Sunday, aiming to help the Falcons turn around their five-game losing streak.
How the Injury Happened
Penix suffered the knee injury during Sunday’s 30-27 overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers.
He was tackled by safety Tre’von Moehrig right after an incomplete pass, aggravating the injury.
This comes on the heels of Penix missing the October 26 game against Miami due to a bone bruise in the same knee.
Penix’s History Raises Questions
The Falcons’ quarterback isn’t new to knee troubles.
He previously underwent two ACL surgeries on his right knee while in college.
How this latest procedure will affect his readiness for the 2026 season remains uncertain.
To confirm the severity of the injury, Penix even sought a second medical opinion before deciding on surgery.
Additional Injuries Add to Falcons’ Woes
Penix isn’t the only key player dealing with knee issues.
Star wide receiver Drake London is also sidelined with a knee injury, and his status is currently listed as “week to week” by Coach Raheem Morris.
These injuries leave the Falcons scrambling for offensive stability as they try to regain momentum.
Performance Highlights and Challenges
Despite the setbacks, Penix had shown promise in recent games.
Against Carolina, he completed 13 of 16 passes for 175 yards, bouncing back from a rough outing in Berlin against the Colts, where he went 12 of 28 in a 31-25 overtime loss.
Meanwhile, Cousins struggled in his first start against Miami, with the offense unable to find rhythm.
Preparing for the Upcoming Games
Coach Morris emphasized that Cousins will have a full week to prepare with the first-team offense.
“He will go through all the rotations this week,” Morris said.
“He’ll go through everything that we need to get done in order for him to go out there and, you know, get a win for the football team.”
This extra practice time could be crucial as the Falcons aim to stabilize their offense without Penix.
What’s Next?
The Falcons now face a challenging stretch with injuries to key players.
Cousins will lead the offense, while the team hopes for recoveries from London and other injured players.
Meanwhile, Penix focuses on rehabilitation, keeping the 2026 season in mind as he begins recovery from the ACL surgery.
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