Atlanta Falcons Sign QB Easton Stick to Bolster Roster Depth

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons have officially signed quarterback Easton Stick, as announced by the organization on Monday. Stick joins the Falcons after spending his first six NFL seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he primarily served as a backup.

Selected in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Stick had an impressive college career at North Dakota State, where he finished with a record of 49-3. This achievement made him the winningest quarterback in FCS history. In his NFL career, Stick has appeared in limited action, playing in one game in 2020 and stepping in for an injured Justin Herbert for four games during the 2023 season.

While in charge of the Chargers, Stick completed 63.8% of his passes, amassing 1,129 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception throughout 2023. His performance, however, was unable to secure a victory, as the Chargers lost all four games he started.

With Michael Penix Jr. set as the starting quarterback for the Falcons, and veteran Kirk Cousins backing him up, Stick is expected to compete with Emory Jones for the third quarterback position. The Falcons have expressed that Stick’s signing was a strategic move that could provide valuable depth, contingent upon Cousins’ future with the team.

The offseason program for the Falcons officially begins this Tuesday, with Stick signing in time to participate. Organized Team Activities (OTAs) are scheduled later this month, with mandatory minicamp set for June 10-11.

Head Coach Raheem Morris mentioned at last month’s league meetings that he does not anticipate Cousins attending the voluntary workouts, which could heighten Stick’s involvement during training sessions.

As the Falcons navigate the quarterback landscape, Stick’s addition is seen as a chance for him to grow into a mentorship role for Penix. Should Cousins be traded or released, Stick could elevate to compete for the backup job with Jones.

With the Falcons retaining three quarterbacks during the 2024 season, Stick’s experience and performance history may play a significant role in shaping the team’s depth chart going forward.