Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. Out for Season with Knee Injury

ATLANTA, Ga. — Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will likely miss the rest of the NFL season due to a knee injury he sustained during Sunday’s 30-27 overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers. Medical sources confirmed to ESPN that Penix has a partially torn ACL.

The injury occurred in the third quarter of the game when safety Tre’von Moehrig hit Penix just after he released a pass. Before leaving the game, Penix completed 13 of 16 passes for 175 yards, and Atlanta was leading 21-16 at the time of his injury.

Penix will be placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least four games. He is reportedly seeking a second opinion on the injury, which is the same knee that caused him to miss a game earlier this season due to a bone bruise.

In his absence, veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who was signed to a $100 million contract last year, will take over as the starter for the foreseeable future. Cousins, who struggled in relief during Sunday’s game, finishing 6 of 14 for 84 yards, will now help shape the offensive game plan moving forward.

The Falcons dropped to a disappointing 3-7 after this latest loss, marking their fifth consecutive defeat. The team has faced challenges this season, including injuries to other key players, further complicating their playoff hopes.

Coach Raheem Morris emphasized the need to adjust their strategy and find out what Cousins does well as they prepare for their upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints. Cousins has only played in one other game this year before being benched for Penix.

Historically, injuries are not new for Penix. During his college career, he sustained multiple severe injuries, including two torn ACLs. This latest setback could significantly impact the Falcons’ season.

Penix’s completion rate this season stands at 60.1% with 1,982 passing yards, including 11 touchdowns and three interceptions. As the team navigates this difficult stretch, Falcons fans are left hoping for Penix’s swift recovery.