The Atlanta Falcons made massive waves last offseason as they gave journeyman QB Kirk Cousins a $180 million contract. Soon after, they used up their draft capital, trading up to grab Washington standout QB, Michael Penix Jr.
The Falcons, who’ve lost four straight games and now trail the Tampa Bay Buccaneers by one game for the NFC South title, are currently in a do-or-die position, putting outside pressure on the front office to make the right call under center after investing heavily at the position.
Raheem Morris Reiterates Atlanta Isn’t Making a QB Change
Weeks after signing QB Kirk Cousins to a $180 million deal ($100 million guaranteed), Atlanta made the most surprising pick of the draft, using the eighth overall pick to select college standout Penix from Washington. Despite recently signing Cousins, the Falcons chose to draft his replacement right in front of him — without mention of this plan to their new starting QB.
At the time, this decision raised many eyebrows around the league. Many would have expected the Falcons to show allegiance to their new QB; instead, this move worked to supplant his role.
The Falcons’ front office justified the pick by citing Penix’s impressive college career and its belief in his potential as a franchise quarterback. Since that day, we’ve seen and heard nothing but mixed messages from the team, the fans, and Cousins himself.
As Week 15 approaches, we look back over Cousins’ last four games: zero TDs, eight INTs, and a 0-4 record. According to ESPN, we haven’t seen a stat line like this for almost 20 years, dating back to Brett Favre’s time with the Green Bay Packers in 2005.
Kirk Cousins is the first quarterback to go four straight games in a single season without a touchdown and at least eight interceptions since Brett Favre in 2005, per @ESPNStatsInfo. #Falcons
— Marc Raimondi (@marcraimondi) December 8, 2024
Even so, many fans are standing firm with Cousins, affirming that “it’s the right call” and that better play is ahead.
It’s the right call. Kirk knows he can play better. Three huge problems in Atlanta. In a timing pattern the receiver needs to get to a spot. At least 4 interceptions came on passes to Kyle pitts who is not running plays out. He’s literally waiting or slowing down on patterns.…
— B. Franklin (@Wisdom_For_U) December 9, 2024
Meanwhile, others are calling for the Falcons to “unleash” Penix in their next game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Unleash Penix.
— Sam Grant (@BryanMillsFist) December 9, 2024
Penix, known for his strong arm and ability to extend plays, had a standout 2023 campaign with Washington. With Cousins still on the mend from a terrible Achilles injury, the Falcons’ decision to draft Penix has sparked debate and raised questions about their long-term plans at the quarterback position. Did they truly believe in Cousins? Was/is Cousins completely healthy? Is there a plan for the two QBs if the Falcons don’t win or win immediately?
The sentiment expressed here is not missed by the fans. The fact that this is a debate they even have to entertain is suspect given that the Falcons’ front office brought this problem on itself, leading many fans to question both coaches and management. According to head coach Raheem Morris, Cousins has “earned” the start, but Atlanta fans are growing restless — some wondering exactly how or what he has done to earn the spot going forward.
Why don’t you press him on this? Why/how has he earned the opportunity? He’s the worst starting qb in the league the last 4 weeks
— Adam (@UncleOJ) December 11, 2024
With two winnable games approaching, the team faces a massive decision: Who will be its starting QB going forward?
