NFL

How Atlanta Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. Learned He Was Named The Starter

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By
wendioliveros
Author photo
wendioliveros Sports Editor

Wendi Oliveros is a diehard tennis fan that is known to set her clock at ridiculous hours to watch live action especially during the Australian Open. She is known for indulging in strawberries and cream during Wimbledon and has watched the US Open live several times.

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Sports Editor

Published19 Dec 2024

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Michael Penix Jr. throws a ball.

If this is the beginning of a legendary NFL career for Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr., he will have a great story to share with his grandchildren someday.

The eighth overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft has been serving as the backup quarterback to Kirk Cousins through the first 15 weeks of the season, but that’s about to change.

Penix Jr., 24, was asked how he learned he was QB1 for the Falcons’ Week 16 game against the New York Giants.  His answer was humorous and relatable.

What Michael Penix Jr. Was Doing When He Got The News

He was shopping at Costco.  Penix was about to buy a $1.50 hot dog when he received the phone call telling him the news.  He admitted that he was no longer hungry after the call.

Penix Looks Good In Practice

At Thursday’s practice, all eyes were on Penix Jr.  He looked good, completing passes to Kyle Pitts and Drake London.

Michael Penix, Jr. And Kirk Cousins

Michael Penix Jr. has the highest respect for Kirk Cousins.  He said, “I look up to Kirk. In my eyes, Kirk can do no wrong… He’s special.”

Nick Saban believes that Penix’s time backing up Cousins will benefit him.  He thinks the play-now-or-bust mentality of young NFL quarterbacks has hurt more than helped their development.

Fans are cheering for Penix Jr. who has had his share of injuries including two torn ACLs in two years and contemplated quitting football in college.