Michael Penix Jr. hasn’t played an entire NFL season yet, but he’s already making waves — not just with Atlanta Falcons fans. The rookie quarterback, taken No. 8 overall in the NFL Draft, was named the team’s starter late in the 2024 season.
Since then, Penix has been stacking up believers, including one of the league’s most respected defensive backs.
Justin Simmons Has High Praise for Atlanta Falcons QB Michael Penix
On a recent episode of the “Up & Adams Show with Kay Adams,” four-time All-Pro safety Justin Simmons opened up about what makes Penix stand out. Simmons, currently a free agent after a brief run in Atlanta, got an up-close look at Penix during practice sessions and didn’t hold back when talking about the young QB’s skill set.
“I think Michael Penix is the real deal,” Simmons said. “Going up against him in practice and having the chance to compete against him, talk a little bit to him about what he’s seeing, how he’s making these throws, things like that, still trying to get myself better. Obviously, he’s asking questions, too.”
Is Michael Penix Jr. the real deal?
Justin Simmons knew that was the case after only their third practice together in training camp. 🔥@heykayadams | @jsimms1119 | @AtlantaFalcons pic.twitter.com/Iv1XlXQXED
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) April 8, 2025
That back-and-forth between a savvy vet and a rising rookie says a lot. Simmons isn’t one to hand out praise unless it’s earned. Penix’s ability to diagnose coverages, adjust mid-play, and still sling darts under pressure made an impression. It’s also notable that Penix was engaging Simmons — picking the brain of a guy with nearly a decade of NFL experience.
Penix Takes Over for Kirk Cousins, Shows Flashes of Promise
Drafted No. 8 overall by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2024 NFL Draft, Penix was named the starter in their Week 16 game against the New York Giants after a period of struggles from veteran Kirk Cousins. Atlanta defeated New York 34-7 in his first start but dropped the season’s final two games against the Washington Commanders and Carolina Panthers, both in overtime.
Penix appeared in five games with three starts and finished with a QB record of 1-2. He completed 61 passes on 105 attempts (58.1%) for 775 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions.
In PFSN’s QB+ metrics, NFL analyst Ben Rolfe gave Penix a D+ grade for Week 17, but the rookie bounced back with a B- in Week 18.
Cousins remains on Atlanta’s roster, but offseason speculation leads many to believe he’ll be traded, if not released. The four-time Pro Bowler was recently linked to the Cleveland Browns.
The Falcons certainly raised eyebrows when they took Penix in the top 10 after inking Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract. But if Simmons’ read is right, Atlanta might have just found its franchise QB.
What’s Next for Atlanta With Penix in Charge?
With Penix taking over for the 2025 season, now is the right time to make moves to compete. While they do not necessarily benefit from the coveted rookie window as long as Cousins is on the roster, that doesn’t mean moves can’t be made.
In the latest three-round 2025 NFL Mock Draft from PFSN’s Reese Decker, the Falcons start the Penix era by giving him defensive help, a sound move given their recent high-capital investments in young offensive stars like Bijan Robinson and Drake London.
MORE: Try PFSN’s Free Mock Draft Simulator With Trades
“Entering the draft, the Falcons have several defensive needs to address, including edge rusher, cornerback, and safety. In this case, General Manager Terry Fontenot takes a calculated gamble on the depth of the edge rusher class and opts for one of the top secondary defenders available,” Decker said.
“Starks is an instinctive centerfielder with natural ball skills, highlighted by his six career interceptions, including his lone 2024 pick—an acrobatic grab against Clemson in the season opener. He plays with decisiveness, showcasing excellent closing speed, relentless pursuit, and physicality as a run defender. Starks is an immediate plug-and-play defender.”