Michael Penix Jr., the Atlanta Falcons’ rookie starting quarterback, is out for the season with an injury. During the offseason, he suffered a serious knee injury that will prevent him from seeing the field. He sustained that second injury during a home loss to the Minnesota Vikings this past Sunday. As a result, former Michigan State quarterback and current Minnesota Vikings star Kirk Cousins started in relief.
Penix Jr became a starter for the Falcons in Week 16. Expectations were high from fans who looked forward to his leadership guiding the team in a new direction. Prior to his injury, he put on a dangerous performance. He was 13 for 16 passing for 175 yards in that game. His totals on the season are 1,982 passing yards, 11 TDs to three INTs, and a completion percentage of 60.1%.
The injury occurred with 5:22 left in the third quarter during an incomplete pass. The Falcons played well and pushed the game into overtime but eventually lost to their opponent in overtime, 30-27. With that defeat, their season record was reduced to 3-7. The team expressed their commitment to Penix Jr moving forward earlier in the season when he was named the starter.
The Falcons used the eighth overall pick to select Penix Jr. His dynamic playmaking has turned the heads of fans and analysts alike. In the short time since he’s been drafted, his seemingly chronic problems with injury have put his long-term availability in question.
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