The Atlanta Falcons announced that quarterback Michael Penix Jr will return to the field for their Week 9 matchup against the New England Patriots. Penix has been dealing with a bone bruise on his left knee since the matchup against the San Francisco 49ers back in Week 7. He missed last week’s game against the Miami Dolphins, but now he’s ready to return to reclaim his starting role.
Penix had the injury late in the second half of Friday night’s game against the 49ers. He was rolled up on and needed to limp off the field. While he was able to finish that game, the injury had a narrow but substantial impact on his practice participation in the immediate days after. Last week, he missed all of practice with the first-team offense, raising questions about his readiness for the full-speed Dolphins game. In order to fill that gap, the Falcons signed long-time starter Kirk Cousins. He often stepped in as an automatic starter for the squad. Sadly, it didn’t go that way for Cousins as the team fell 34-10 at home.
Given his struggles earlier in the season, this week felt like a turning point for Penix. He was active in walkthroughs all week and was in a limited practice on Wednesday, but there was concern and speculation around his readiness. After sitting out Wednesday and Thursday, he was back as a full participant on Friday. This indicates his return and signals he’s ready to take charge of the offense again. Having received no injury designation for their Week 9 game, he is in line to retake his place under center as the starter.
Penix has been light’s out as the focal point of the Falcons offense. He officially became the starter in Week 16 of last year. He replaced Cousins during a difficult stretch and seemed to make the most of his opportunity, playing above his paygrade all this season. He’s averaging a robust 61% completion percentage to date. This stellar stat line consists of 1,409 yards, five TDs and three INTs.
The Falcons opened the rematch hoping to recapture their offensive mojo against the Patriots with Penix now reinstalled under center. His vision and artistry will be key for this young squad’s long-term ambitions. That’s even more true following their lackluster showing against Miami.
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