The Falcons made a bold move in the 2024 NFL Draft, selecting Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick-a signal that they believe in his long-term potential under center. But so far, Penix hasn’t had the opportunity to show what he can do at the pro level.
That’s largely because he’s been sidelined while rehabbing a torn ACL. Still, new head coach Kevin Stefanski isn’t shying away from expressing confidence in the young quarterback’s future.
“Michael is somebody I’m very excited about,” Stefanski said this week. “His rehab is what’s most important right now. I saw him in the training room, and he’s, as you can imagine, attacking his rehab.”
That’s the kind of mindset you want to hear from a young QB trying to carve out his place in the league. Penix has battled injuries before and bounced back with strong play-most notably during his college days, where he showed off a live arm and the ability to make all the throws. Now, the Falcons are betting that once he's healthy, that talent will translate to the next level.
Stefanski, who’s known for developing quarterbacks and building smart, balanced offenses, sees plenty to like in Penix's game.
“I think you see a player on tape that can get through progressions, can layer the ball, can push the ball to all areas of the field,” he said. “Obviously, he was very productive in college, has had some really, really, really good moments here in the pros, so I just see a young player that will continue to develop and continue to get there.”
That’s a coach talking like he believes Penix can be more than just a project. The traits are there: field vision, touch, arm strength. The next step is pairing those tools with consistency and durability-two things Penix will need to prove once he’s back on the field.
Of course, the Falcons’ quarterback room is still a bit crowded-for now. Kirk Cousins is still on the roster, though there’s widespread expectation that Atlanta will move on soon. Stefanski, who coached Cousins during their time together in Minnesota, was careful not to tip his hand when asked about the veteran’s future in Atlanta.
“When it comes to Kirk, obviously have a previous relationship with Kirk,” Stefanski said. “But I don’t know if it’s the time yet to talk about all the position and those types of things. Those types of conversations will come in due time.”
Translation: the Falcons are keeping their options open, but the focus right now is on getting Penix healthy and ready to compete.
For Atlanta fans, the hope is that Stefanski’s system-one that’s historically leaned on play-action, timing, and smart decision-making-can give Penix the structure he needs to thrive. If the rehab goes well and the flashes we’ve seen turn into consistent play, the Falcons might just have their quarterback of the future already in the building.