Falcons Focused on Building Around Michael Penix Jr. as Year Two Begins
Michael Penix Jr. isn’t just preparing for another season under center in Atlanta-he’s carrying the weight of expectation, legacy, and personal growth into Year 2 as the Falcons' full-time starter. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Penix opened up about the pressure that comes with being a franchise quarterback-and a man determined to defy the odds.
“As a man, you carry a lot of pressure each and every day,” Penix wrote. “Pressure to provide for your family, pressure to succeed in everything you do in life, pressure of letting everybody around you down. But one thing I never did and never will do is fold in the face of it.”
That mindset is exactly what the Falcons are banking on. Penix’s journey-from humble beginnings to becoming the face of an NFL franchise-isn’t just a feel-good story. It’s a reflection of the grit and mental toughness Atlanta believes can translate to wins on the field.
“I come from the mud literally… I never had no handouts,” Penix said. “All the pain, uncertainties… never stop me from pursuing my dreams.”
That chip on his shoulder? It’s not going anywhere. And with a new-look coaching staff and a front office that’s doubling down on building a physical, run-first identity, the Falcons are doing everything they can to put their young quarterback in a position to thrive.
Matt Ryan’s Vision: Run First, Play Action Always
Falcons President of Football Operations Matt Ryan-yes, that Matt Ryan-is shaping the team with a clear philosophy: protect the quarterback by pounding the rock.
“From the quarterback’s perspective, I always valued the run game and the ability to run the football and some of the pressure that takes off of a young quarterback,” Ryan said. “I think back to my experience… the ability to hand the ball off to a guy like [Michael] Turner, have a really solid, physical offensive line, and then use the play-action pass off of that.”
Ryan’s own early success in Atlanta was built on that exact formula. Now, he’s hoping to recreate it for Penix.
That vision is a big reason why head coach Kevin Stefanski was brought in. Known for his commitment to a balanced offense and physical play style, Stefanski echoed the sentiment.
“I do believe in running the football, and that’s something that Matt and I know is valuable in this league,” Stefanski said. “At the end of the day, we want to play a physical brand of football.”
New OC, Same Vision
Tommy Rees steps in as offensive coordinator, and while this will be his first season calling plays at the NFL level, Stefanski isn’t worried about the learning curve.
“He’s young, but I don’t know if you always measure experience just in years,” Stefanski said. “He’s had unbelievable experiences in his young career.
He’s somebody that I trust. We see the game similarly, but we also push each other because we’re different.”
That blend of shared vision and creative tension could be key in designing an offense that plays to Penix’s strengths-especially in the play-action game, where his arm talent and mobility can shine.
Cousins Keeping the Door Open
Meanwhile, veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who joined the Falcons last season, isn’t closing the book on his career just yet.
“I would love to keep playing,” Cousins said. “I feel rejuvenated after playing last season. I’m excited to see where it can go from here.”
Whether Cousins returns as a backup or finds a new opportunity elsewhere, his presence this past season offered a valuable mentorship opportunity for Penix-something that could pay dividends as the young QB continues to grow.
Panthers Eyeing Upgrades Across the Board
Down in Carolina, the Panthers are in roster-building mode, and there’s no shortage of needs heading into free agency and the draft.
At linebacker, they’re expected to be active. Several names are on the radar, including Jaguars’ Devin Lloyd, Eagles’ Nakobe Dean, Chiefs’ Leo Chenal, Packers’ Quay Walker, and Browns’ Devin Bush. With both inside and outside linebacker spots in need of upgrades, Carolina could make multiple moves here.
On offense, the wide receiver room is another area of focus. While the team has leaned heavily on drafting and developing talent at the position, they could explore free agency for a boost. Giants WR Wan’Dale Robinson is seen as a logical target, though if his price tag climbs, more affordable options like Packers’ Romeo Doubs or Vikings’ Jalen Nailor could be in play.
The offensive line is also on the radar. With left tackle Ickey Ekwonu recovering from patellar tendon surgery and center Cade Mays hitting the open market, the Panthers will need to shore up protection for their young quarterback.
Tight end depth is another need, and on defense, safety is a position they’re likely to address. Maryland’s Jalen Huskey turned heads at the Shrine Bowl with his versatility and playmaking ability-he’s a name to watch as the draft approaches.
One sleeper free agent to keep an eye on: Bengals edge rusher Joseph Ossai. He won’t break the bank, and Carolina could use more juice off the edge.
The offseason is just getting started, but the direction is clear for both teams. In Atlanta, it’s about building around a young quarterback who’s hungry to prove himself.
In Carolina, it’s about plugging holes and finding playmakers to turn the corner. One thing’s for sure-both teams are gearing up for pivotal seasons ahead.