Atlanta Falcons Make Surprise Switch to Rookie Quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
The Atlanta Falcons have decided to move on from Kirk Cousins and will start rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. after his recent struggles. Penix was drafted with the eighth pick by the Falcons just weeks after the team signed Cousins to a four-year, $180 million deal.
In his last five games, Cousins has thrown just one touchdown pass and nine interceptions. Falcons head coach Raheem Morris announced the change in a statement, citing the need for a boost.
Penix, 24, threw for 4,903 yards with 36 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in his final season with Washington. Despite only having one start in preseason games, the Falcons have chosen to put their trust in the rookie quarterback to turn around the team’s season.
The change in quarterback comes as Cousins struggled to find his rhythm early in the season. However, he seemed to regain his form with 13 touchdowns and three picks over the next five games before regressing again.
Penix will take over under center for Sunday’s game against the New York Giants, and the team hopes the change will be just what they need to bounce back from their recent slide.