The Atlanta Falcons had a good season this year, according to some, but not so good according to others, as they missed the playoffs after going 8-9. A major part of that was injuries to key players. One of whom was quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
What Happened To Michael Penix Jr.?
Falcons quarterback Penix was injured in Week 11 of the regular season against the Carolina Panthers. He was scanning the defense to make a pass, and he was hit by a defender and landed awkwardly. Penix left the game and did not return. The Falcons lost 30-27 in overtime. The diagnosis was a partially torn ACL in his left knee. The injury would require season-ending surgery. Penix concluded the 2025 season with 1,982 passing yards, 9 touchdowns, and three interceptions.
Arthur Blank Provides on Penix
Penix had surgery back in November of last year, and it was reported by Tori McElhaney of the official team site that Falcons owner Arthur Blank provided an update on Penix’s progress and rehab, saying,
“The surgeon felt 1,000% secure in the medical procedure they went through, and they really felt his knee was going to be even better than it was before. He’s on a successful rehab program. He’s back in Atlanta. He’s committed mentally, physically, and he feels good.”
It was also reported that Blank was asked if Penix is the long-term solution, and that he responded with, “I do think Michael is a franchise quarterback.”
Kirk Cousins Future in Atlanta
With Penix being injured for the latter part of this season, quarterback Kirk Cousins had to step up in his absence. Once in Week 8 against the Miami Dolphins, Penix was ruled out with an injury. They lost that game34-10. The other time was when Penix left the game in Week 11 against Carolina. Over the course of the season, Cousins threw for 1,721 yards and 10 touchdowns to five interceptions.
Cousins’ best game this season was against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 15 on Thursday Night Football, where he threw for 373 yards and three touchdowns. He also led a game-winning drive late, helping them secure a 29-28 victory.
Cousins’ contract was restructured, with his 2026 base salary of $35 million reduced to $2.1 million, and the difference added to his 2027 salary.
Blank spoke on Cousins’ future in Atlanta, saying, ” Kirk, we’ll see what will happen with him going forward.” He also said that Cousins, “has really been a great leader for us, I would say, over the last couple of years. Both that he was playing in a support role to Michael last year and then this year, support role to Michael and stepping up and playing at a very competitive level for us as well.”
